The Ogun State Police Command has successfully rescued a 7-year-old girl, Mercy Akinde, who was abducted last week in Sango-Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state. The announcement was made on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola.
Covert Operation Leads to Rescue
The covert operation, personally led by the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, resulted in the child’s safe recovery in Ayetoro, Ogun State. The Anti-Kidnapping Team of the police command played a critical role in locating the victim and apprehending the suspects involved in the abduction.
Odutola stated, “In a swift covert operation by the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Police Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, the Ota missing girl was found in Ayetoro, Ogun State, by the Anti-Kidnapping Team of the command, and all suspects have been arrested.”
Public Concern and Swift Police Action
The abduction of Mercy Akinde last week in Sango-Ota caused widespread concern among the public, prompting a rigorous search effort. While details about the rescue operation and the suspects remain limited, the Commissioner of Police is expected to provide further information during a scheduled press briefing on Monday.
Allegations of Unprofessional Conduct
In the wake of the abduction, the Ogun State Police Command faced allegations of misconduct. Reports suggested that some officers demanded N40,000 from the complainant to process the case. The command refuted these claims but admitted that the officer who initially handled the report acted unprofessionally by failing to escalate the matter to the Divisional Police Officer for immediate action.
The statement acknowledged that disciplinary actions have been initiated against the officers involved in mishandling the incident.
Commitment to Justice
The successful rescue operation demonstrates the Ogun State Police Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its residents. CP Lanre Ogunlowo’s direct involvement underscores the command’s dedication to addressing kidnapping cases and restoring public trust in law enforcement.
As investigations continue, the police assure the public that justice will be served for those involved in the abduction of Mercy Akinde. More details are expected to emerge during the Commissioner of Police’s press briefing, providing clarity on the case and reinforcing the command’s resolve to combat crime effectively.
