Police arrest 88 suspects and rescue five kidnapping victims in Lagos and Ogun during Operation Kosaye

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu praised the security agencies for their continued crackdown on criminal activity after the success of Operation Kosaye, which resulted in the arrest of 88 suspects, the rescue of five kidnapped victims, and the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition in Lagos and Ogun states.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso released a statement noting that the coordinated operation also resulted in the deaths of four suspected criminals during a gun duel with security operatives.

Gov. Sanwo‑Olu commended the police and other security agencies for their work, assuring residents that the state government would continue to back initiatives designed to keep Lagos safe.

“We will continue to work with the police and other security agencies to ensure that our state is safe and secure for residents and visitors,” the governor said.

He also praised the police leadership and the collaboration between Lagos and Ogun states.

“We appreciate the huge efforts of the police as directed by Inspector‑General Tunji Disu, in arresting the suspects and the co‑operation of our neighbors, Ogun State. This is the way it should be,” he added.

According to the statement, the increased police presence in both states has led security operatives to parade suspects and display recovered weapons, sending a clear warning that criminals have no safe haven in Lagos and Ogun.

The government said Operation Kosaye, which means “no space for criminals,” is a coordinated offensive aimed at kidnapping syndicates, armed robbery gangs, and other violent criminal networks operating in the South‑West.

It added that operatives are combing the forest boundary between Lagos and Ogun states, especially along the J3/J4 axis of Ogbere in Ogun State, as part of ongoing efforts to flush out criminal elements.

According to the statement, the police remain committed to ensuring that there is no safe haven for criminals, particularly kidnappers, through intelligence‑led operations and sustained security efforts.

Gov. Sanwo‑Olu urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing useful information about criminal activities and hideouts.

“We will do our best to ensure that our law enforcement agencies are well motivated through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF),” he said.