Reading Time: 2 minutes
The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of one of the kidnapped victims, Bilikisu Kazeem, a 37-year-old lady, during a gun duel with suspected gunmen who abducted the chairman of the Lagos chapter of the People’s Democratic Party.
According to Omolola Odutola, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Bilikisu Kazeem passed away before reaching the hospital. Her remains were promptly collected by her relatives, who declined any autopsy examination from the police.
The Divisional Police Officer of Isara Division successfully rescued nine out of ten persons from the suspected kidnappers. The incident occurred following a report received on January 25, 2024, around 7:00 p.m., stating that suspected hoodlums emerged from the bush near Bamboo area of Ogun State, along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. The gunmen barricaded the highway with articulated vehicles, causing panic among motorists who abandoned their vehicles and fled into the bush.
In response, the Divisional Police Officer and his team, along with an Army Patrol team on transit, swiftly raced to the scene and engaged in a gun battle with the suspected kidnappers. The exchange of fire aided the escape of nine kidnapped victims, who later rejoined their vehicles and continued their journey.
While some victims sustained non-life-threatening bullet injuries in their escape attempts, a White Mazda Bus registered as LSR 288 XE was slightly damaged during the incident. The police recovered one AK47 Magazine containing 28 live ammunitions believed to belong to the hoodlums, along with handsets and a car key, which were handed over to the respective owners.
The Lagos PDP chairman, Philip Aivoj, remains held captive, but covert operations are underway to ensure his safe release. The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations has mobilized Tactical Commanders for joint operations with other security agencies to track and rescue Philip Aivoj unhurt.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Alamutu Abiodun, has reassured the public and motorists of their safety, emphasizing the commitment to bring the perpetrators to justice. Further updates on the situation will be provided as the investigation progresses, and motorists are advised to travel safely without fear of attack.
