- Lagos State Police Command stated that further arrests are anticipated
- Two locally made pistols, 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 17 live cartridges, and an unregistered 1999 Toyota Camry believed to have been stolen was recovered.
- Hundeyin emphasized the importance of the arrest
Six individuals suspected of being members of a notorious criminal gang have been apprehended by the Lagos State Police Command during a routine patrol, police authorities confirmed on Monday.
Eko Hot Blog report that during a stop-and-search operation conducted on Thursday, officers intercepted an unregistered vehicle displaying suspicious behavior in the Lagos metropolis.
EDITOR’S PICK
- FG, Reps Push For 5% Levy On Petrol, Diesel For Road Repairs
- Ukraine, Russia Agree on Prisoner swap but Ceasefire Talks Stall
- UEFA To Revise Champions League Knockout Rules After Arsenal, Barcelona Blow
A search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of two locally made pistols, 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 17 live cartridges, and an unregistered 1999 Toyota Camry believed to have been stolen.
The suspects have been identified as Yakubu Oke, 48; Teslim Balogun, 33; Emmanuel Osas, 33; Joseph Abah, 34; Idris Adewunmi, 32; and Opeyemi Kolawole, 28.
“They were questioned at the scene but failed to provide any valid identification or plausible explanation about their movements,” a senior police officer told this reporter under condition of anonymity.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspects have been identified as members of a criminal gang that was already under police surveillance for numerous cases of armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Command, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest via text message, stating: “Yes, I can confirm that six suspects were arrested. Arms, ammunition, and a suspected stolen vehicle were recovered.The suspects are currently assisting with ongoing investigations.”
Hundeyin emphasized the importance of the arrest, describing it as a significant milestone in the Command’s ongoing efforts to eradicate criminal activity
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, remains committed to ensuring that all criminal elements are flushed out of Lagos. We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities,” he added.
In recent years, Lagos has experienced an uptick in gang-related crimes such as armed robbery, vehicle theft, and cult clashes, prompting increased police surveillance and intelligence-led patrols throughout the state.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are reportedly cooperating with investigators.
The Lagos State Police Command stated that further arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues, and the suspects will be brought before a court upon the conclusion of the inquiry.
“We will not rest until Lagos is safe for all residents. Our operatives are working around the clock to ensure criminal elements face the full weight of the law,” the statement read.
The Lagos State Police Command has urged members of the public to report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or via the emergency hotlines.
