Suspects Reveal Details of Abduction in Ogun State
Two suspects arrested in connection with the kidnapping of Mrs. Folashade Odumosu, wife of a former Assistant Inspector General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, have confessed to receiving a ransom of N20 million.
The suspects, identified as 27-year-old Smart Agbojule and 30-year-old Michael Keleke, disclosed during an interrogation that they were sent by an unidentified man who orchestrated the crime.
The Abduction
Mrs. Odumosu was abducted on January 16, 2025, at about 10 p.m. in the Arepo area of Ogun State. According to reports, four masked men attacked her, forcibly removed her from her Lexus Jeep, and drove away with her.
The suspects later held her captive for one week and two days in a remote location.
Confessions of the Suspects
During their parade before newsmen, the suspects narrated how the abduction was carried out.
One suspect stated:
“We took her through the bush and kept her for one week and two days. We were sent by one man, but I don’t know him. It is one of my brothers, who was killed during the police operation, that knew him.”
He revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded N40 million as ransom but eventually settled for N20 million. Each member of the gang received N4,250,000 from the ransom proceeds.
“We hid her at a palm tree behind her house before moving her to the creek,” he added.
Police Operation and Ransom Recovery
The Nigeria Police Force successfully rescued Mrs. Odumosu during a coordinated operation. Two of the kidnappers were killed in a gun duel with the police, while others fled.
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the police arrested Agbojule and Keleke, two members of the fleeing syndicate, in Lagos.
During the operation and subsequent arrests, the police recovered N12,250,000 from the ransom proceeds.
Further Investigations
Adejobi stated that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang and identify the mastermind behind the crime.
A Renewed Call for Vigilance
The incident underscores the persistent challenges of kidnapping in Nigeria, with law enforcement intensifying efforts to tackle such crimes. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to aid in the fight against criminal syndicates.
The successful rescue of Mrs. Odumosu and the arrest of two suspects highlight the commitment of the police to ensuring the safety and security of citizens. Further updates are expected as investigations progress.
