From Hostage to Freedom: Inside the Dramatic Rescue of Ex-AIG’s Wife

Drama in the Creeks: Police Rescue Ex-AIG’s Wife in Daring Shootout with Kidnappers

 

In a high-stakes operation straight out of a blockbuster movie, the Nigeria Police Force on Thursday rescued the abducted wife of retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, after seven harrowing days in captivity.

 

Mrs. Odumosu, kidnapped from her residence in the Arepo area of Ogun State last Thursday, was dramatically freed following an intelligence-driven raid by the anti-kidnapping unit of the Ogun State Command.

Last Thursday night, around 10 PM, four masked men stormed Arepo, targeting Mrs. Odumosu as she pulled into her residence in a Lexus SUV. The attackers dragged her from her vehicle, bundled her into their car, and sped off into the night, leaving a wave of shock and fear in their wake.

The kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of N10 million, sparking intense efforts by security operatives to track them down.

The breakthrough came early Thursday morning when intelligence gathered by the police led them to the kidnappers’ hideout deep within the swampy creeks of Ikorodu in Lagos State.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operatives encountered the armed criminals during the raid at approximately 6:45 AM. A fierce gun battle erupted as the kidnappers opened fire in a desperate bid to escape.

“The gallant officers overpowered the gang,” Adejobi said. “Two of the kidnappers were neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while four others fled, abandoning their weapons and ransom money. Mrs. Odumosu was rescued unharmed within the creeks.”

The police recovered an arsenal of deadly weapons, including four AK-47 rifles, three locally made single-barrelled guns, and ammunition of various calibres. Also retrieved was the N10 million ransom the kidnappers had demanded.

Mrs. Odumosu has since been reunited with her family after undergoing medical evaluation. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, lauded the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, and his operatives for their bravery and efficiency.

“This operation is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the police to protect lives and ensure justice,” Adejobi added.

The operation sends a clear message to criminal elements that the Nigeria Police Force will not relent in its fight against crime. As investigations continue to track the fleeing suspects, Nigerians are reminded of the risks law enforcement officers take daily to ensure the safety of citizens.

The dramatic rescue of Mrs. Odumosu underscores the importance of intelligence-led policing and the resilience of security operatives in the face of brazen criminality.