Police in the Lagos Zone 2 Command have arrested seven suspected criminals linked to a string of offences across the state during a targeted operation by the ‘Zonal Puff Adder’ team.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Afolayan Gbenga, at the headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.
Gbenga said the suspects were apprehended over alleged offences including murder, armed robbery, stealing, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms.
He explained that the operation commenced on March 3, when operatives, acting on credible intelligence, arrested a 23-year-old suspect identified as ‘Karube’.
“Karube subsequently led operatives to other members of the gang during follow-up operations,” Gbenga said.
According to him, information obtained from the suspect led to a raid on a criminal hideout known as ‘Lion’s Den’ on Adeleye Street, Orile Iganmu.
Five suspects were arrested at the location, while another suspect, Bansa, was later apprehended in the White Sand area following further investigation.
Gbenga said several weapons were recovered during the operation, including a locally made cut-to-size shotgun, four cutlasses, a knife, a claw hammer and live cartridges.
“Other items recovered include three expended cartridges and assorted charms,” he added.
He further alleged that during interrogation, Bansa confessed to killing a tricycle rider, Ikujowolo, at Shitta under bridge in Surulere.
“He told investigators he shot the victim dead during an attack carried out with another suspect identified as ‘Small Messi’,” Gbenga said.
The spokesperson also revealed that the suspects confessed to the killing of a 40-year-old man identified simply as Okoro on February 14.
“They are also linked to two other killings that occurred on Feb. 18 in the Orile Iganmu area,” he said.
Gbenga noted that the suspects remain in police custody and are assisting investigators in cases involving multiple murder, armed robbery, cultism and firearms offences.
“They will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” he said.
He added that the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, commended the operatives for their efforts.
Jimoh praised their professionalism, bravery and commitment, and reaffirmed the command’s determination to rid Lagos and Ogun states of criminal elements.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support the police with credible and timely information.
