The Ogun State Police Command recently apprehended 42-year-old former convict, Abolaji Alese, alongside six alleged accomplices, for suspected involvement in a string of kidnappings and armed robberies targeting travelers along the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode route.

The suspects, paraded on Friday by Commissioner of Police Abiodun Alamutu, are believed to be responsible for abducting seven individuals from May to September 2024.

The other individuals arrested include Onokrese Jacob (34), Henry Emmanuel (34), Joseph Udomah (42), Abiola Oduyemi (41), Abbey Emmanuel (34), and Jimoh Kareem (39).

Alamutu identified Alese as the head of a “vicious syndicate” with a substantial criminal history, noting Alese had been previously apprehended by the Oyo State Police Command in 2022 for abducting two women in Ibadan and is presently facing trial in Ibadan’s High Court.

Recounting one of the incidents, Alamutu explained, “On May 16, 2024, around 8:28 am, this gang led by Azeez Abolaji Alese assaulted a woman named Busari Abiola as she attempted to enter her residence in Sagamu. She was subsequently kidnapped and driven away in her unregistered 2009 Ash-colored Corolla.”

Although Abiola was eventually released, her vehicle was retained by the kidnappers.

The gang’s other notable abductions involved Adebayo Olabisi, abducted in Ijebu Ode in her Highlander Jeep, and Omosehin Tanwa, kidnapped in Ijebu Mushin on June 2.

Alamutu stated that the syndicate’s final known crime took place on September 5, with the abduction of nurse Uruakpa Elizabeth from Babcock University, taken at gunpoint in her red Toyota Camry.

The capture of suspect Abiola Oduyemi in Egbeda, Ibadan, on October 3 provided investigators with leads that enabled them to locate the rest of the gang members.

Oduyemi admitted his involvement and shared crucial information that facilitated the police’s efforts to apprehend his associates.

Alamutu highlighted Alese’s extensive criminal history, mentioning, “Notably, Azeez Alese was previously arrested on January 14, 2016, for the kidnapping of an expatriate along the Sagamu-Ogijo Road and faces charges in court. He was granted bail on April 26, 2024, yet resumed his illicit activities soon after.”

During the arrest, the police seized a browning pistol, criminal charms, and personal belongings connected to victims, including a Babcock University key holder.

Alamutu reassured the public that the suspects would soon be prosecuted and encouraged travelers to remain vigilant and plan their journeys carefully.