Operation kosaye: Police arrest 88 suspects, rescue five kidnap victims in Lagos, Ogun

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commended security agencies for the ongoing crackdown on criminal elements following the success of Operation Kosaye, which has led to the arrest of 88 suspects, the rescue of five kidnapped victims and the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition across Lagos and Ogun states.

A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said the coordinated operation also recorded the death of four suspected criminals during a gun duel with security operatives.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu praised the police and other security agencies for their efforts, assuring residents that the state government would continue to support initiatives aimed at keeping 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 lauded 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 heightened police presence across both states has seen security operatives parade suspects and display recovered weapons, sending a clear warning that criminals have no hiding place in Lagos and Ogun.

The government said Operation Kosaye, meaning “no space for criminals,” is a coordinated offensive targeting 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, particularly along the J3/J4 axis of Ogbere in Ogun State, as part of ongoing efforts to flush out criminal elements.

The police, according to the statement, remain committed to ensuring there is no safe haven for criminals, especially kidnappers, through intelligence-led operations and sustained security efforts.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing useful information on the activities and hideouts of criminals.

“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.