Police Foil N50m Kidnap Plot in Ogun

By Babatunji Wusu| The Ogun State Police Command has successfully stopped a planned kidnap plot targeting a Chinese expatriate and arrested two men suspected of being behind the scheme. Investigators say the suspects allegedly intended to demand a ransom of N50 million from the victim’s family or associates.

The suspects, identified as Chinedu Onwuemena, 41, and Jimoh Ojo, 37, fell into police custody after officers acted on intelligence about a planned kidnap plot along the Ijebu-Ode/Odogbolu Expressway. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation took place at about 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday following credible information received by the Divisional Police Officer of the Obalende Police Division.

Acting without delay, surveillance teams and police operatives moved to the area and intercepted the suspects before they could carry out the alleged crime. Babaseyi noted that the swift response of officers prevented what could have developed into a serious security incident.

Early findings from the investigation suggest that the suspects planned to abduct a Chinese national and demand N50 million ransom for his release. Police also revealed that Onwuemena, who reportedly served as the victim’s interpreter and driver, allegedly exploited his access and position within the company to support the kidnap plot.

Authorities believe another suspect remains at large and may have played a role in the conspiracy. Efforts are ongoing to locate the fleeing accomplice and uncover the wider network linked to the alleged operation.

The case has now been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation. Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended officers of the Obalende Police Division for their prompt action, which helped stop the kidnap plot before it could be executed.