By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The outgoing Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Lanre Ogumlowo, on Thursday raised concerns over the growing use of forested areas in the state by criminal elements, particularly bandits involved in kidnapping for ransom.

Ogumlowo spoke with journalists on the sidelines of his send-off ceremony held at the State Police Command headquarters in Abeokuta, as he prepares to assume his new role as an Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) following his recent promotion.

The police boss disclosed that dense forests, especially within the Ijebu axis of the state, are increasingly being exploited by suspected bandits as operational bases.

According to him, the development is partly a consequence of intensified security operations in other parts of the country, which have forced criminal elements to migrate.

His words: “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 described recent kidnapping incidents in the Ijebu area as a disturbing trend, signalling a shift in criminal tactics within the state.

“The recent incidents of kidnapping in the Ijebu area reflect a worrying trend and a new dimension in criminal tactics within the state,” he said.

Ogumlowo, however, assured residents that the police command is fully alert to the situation and actively working to address it.

“We are fully aware of this challenge and are working round the clock to subdue it. This is not something we can tackle alone, as it involves movements across state borders. We are strengthening collaboration with neighbouring states and other security agencies,” he added.

Despite the emerging threat, the Commissioner maintained that the command remains on top of the situation and is committed to safeguarding lives and property across the State.

He further assured that strategic measures are being implemented to flush out criminal elements from their hideouts.

Reflecting on his tenure between 2024 and 2026, during which he succeeded CP Abiodun Alamutu, Ogumlowo attributed the successes recorded by the command to the support of the Ogun State government, traditional rulers, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC).

“The support of the people of the state and the unyielding backing of the government have been instrumental. The government has stood by us, and the people have also been there for us,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of public cooperation in policing, noting that citizens remain central to effective law enforcement.

“It is not fair to assess the work of the command without acknowledging the people, who are the end users of our services. As often said, the people are the real bosses, and we are here to serve them,” Ogumlowo stated.

Assessing his performance, he expressed satisfaction with the command’s achievements while acknowledging the dynamic nature of security challenges.

“In most areas, I would say we have done well. Security is dynamic, and there is always more to be done. But for the period I served, I would give the command a pass mark. I also enjoyed enormous support from members of the public, particularly traditional rulers, who were very supportive,” he added.