The Oyo State Police Command has arrested three suspected armed robbers and recovered a locally fabricated pistol and an axe during an intelligence-led operation in Ibadan, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle violent crime in the state.
The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Oluyole Divisional Headquarters during a routine stop-and-search operation around the Rhema Bridge axis of Oluyole, Ibadan, at about 12:30 p.m. on Monday.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ibadan.
According to him, the suspects were intercepted while riding a Bajaj motorcycle, prompting the officers to conduct a search that uncovered dangerous weapons concealed in their possession.
“During the operation, the officers intercepted a Bajaj motorcycle conveying three suspicious individuals, leading to their arrest.
“A thorough search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of a cut-to-size locally fabricated pistol and an axe concealed inside a black school bag in their possession.
“The suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the exhibits were recovered for further investigation,” the PPRO said.
Ayanlade disclosed that preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects are members of the Aiye and Eiye cult groups.
He added that detectives have intensified investigations to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in armed robbery, cult-related activities and other criminal offences, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the alleged criminal network.
The police spokesman said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Olugbenga, commended the vigilance and professionalism of the operatives, noting that their swift action may have averted violent criminal attacks.
“The CP reiterates the Command’s resolve to sustain intelligence-led policing, robust visibility patrols, and strategic stop-and-search operations aimed at denying criminal elements the opportunity to operate within the state”, he said.
Ayanlade also urged residents to continue supporting the police by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious persons and activities through appropriate security channels.
