Ekiti: Police Arrest Six Suspected Armed Robbers Targeting POS Operators

The Ekiti State Police Command has apprehended six individuals suspected of specializing in attacks on Point of Sale (POS) operators and traders, stealing their money.

Commissioner of Police Mr. Adeniran Akinwale identified the suspects as Doyin Ajisafe, Joshua Olabanji, Femi Fasusi, Femi Adewale, Olayosi Adeolodi, and Ezekiel Babalola. Akinwale, represented by Police Public Relations Officer Sunday Abutu, made the announcement during a press briefing in Ado Ekiti on Friday, where the suspects were paraded alongside three other suspected armed robbers at the Ekiti State Command Headquarters.

According to Akinwale, the Rapid Response Squad apprehended the suspects following a credible tip-off. The investigation revealed that the group had targeted and robbed at least nine POS operators between June 19, 2024, and August 5, 2024, in Ado Ekiti.

The suspects admitted to robbing POS operators in several areas, including Ori-Apata, Adebayo, Basiri, Better Life, Olaoluwa, Oke-Ila, Housing, and Moferere within the Ado Ekiti metropolis.

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They were reportedly planning additional attacks when they were arrested. Police also recovered a locally made single-barrel gun loaded with one live cartridge from the suspects’ EKO HOT BLOG gathered.

The suspects revealed that their attacks were typically carried out early in the morning or at the end of the business day.

Commissioner Akinwale stated, “All the arrested suspects will be charged to court, and we will intensify efforts to capture the remaining individuals who are still at large. The past two months have been particularly challenging as criminals have adopted new methods, including using motorcycles to carry out their attacks on POS operators, often with firearms and resulting in fatalities.”

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Following an initial attack on June 20, 2024, Akinwale had directed the Command Intelligence and Tactical Units to locate the perpetrators. This led to the arrest and arraignment of several suspects, with ongoing efforts to apprehend others involved.

He urged residents to remain law-abiding and continue their lawful activities without fear. Akinwale also encouraged the public to provide credible information to the police that could aid in capturing criminals, either by calling 08062335577 or visiting the nearest police station.

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