Some kidnap attempts have been foiled by the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State just as 48 persons suspected to be cult members have been arrested.
The attempted kidnap, Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Edgal Imohimi, said, were in Iba area.
The police boss who addressed journalists, said: “Acting on credible intelligence received on December 10 that a gang of kidnappers had sneaked into the state and were planning to kidnap some notable persons in Iba area of Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State, I directed the Commander, Anti-Kidnapping Squad to proactively ensure that the criminals do not effect their plan.
“Consequently, the squad swung into action immediately. Tapping into the intelligence resource of the command, they were able to locate them in their hideout at Imota, Ikorodu on December 11.
“However, when the hoodlums sighted the operatives approaching, they opened fire on them for which the police replied. During the gunfire exchange, a suspect was gunned down while two others from Arogbo, Ose-Odo, Ondo State were apprehended.’’
Imohimi stated that one locally cut-to-size double barrel pistol, one expended cartridge and three live cartridges were recovered from them.
He said efforts were being made to arrest those on the run.
On completion of investigation, suspects would be charged to court, he said.
On the arrest of suspected cult members, Imohimi revealed that undercover operatives from Igando Division arrested 21 persons.
He said the police acted on the information on December 5 that the suspected cult members would be performing their initiation ceremony at an hotel in Igando area the state.
He added that 10 were arrested at Iyana Ipaja, seven in Ijora and 10 in Ketu Alapere.
