The outgoing Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Lanre Ogunlowo, has warned that bandits are increasingly using forested areas in the state, particularly in the Ijebu axis, as hideouts for kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Speaking on Thursday at his send-off ceremony held at the State Police Command headquarters in Abeokuta, ENigeria Newspaper gathered that Ogunlowo described the development as a growing security concern and a shift in criminal strategy.
“The bandits are taking advantage of the forested terrain in Ogun State. Due to sustained clearance operations across the country, some displaced criminal elements are finding their way into our forests and using them as operational bases,” he said.
He noted that recent kidnapping incidents in the Ijebu area reflect this emerging pattern, emphasizing that security agencies are not taking the situation lightly.
“We are strengthening collaboration with neighbouring states and other security agencies. Strategic measures are being implemented to flush out criminal elements from their hideouts,” he assured.
Ogumlowo credited the successes recorded during his time and command to strong support from the Ogun State government, traditional institutions, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC).
He said, “The support of the people of the state and the unyielding backing of the government have been instrumental. The people are the real bosses, and we are here to serve them.”
The departing CP expressed confidence in the command’s efforts and overall effectiveness throughout his tenure, even though he acknowledged that security concerns are still evolving.
