Lagos Police Dismantle Notorious Five-Man Robbery Gang, Recover Stolen Vehicles, Firearms, And Charms

…CP Jimoh Visits Scene, Commends Tactical Teams for Swift Action

By Adeyemi Obadimu

The Lagos State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its fight against crime with the arrest of a five-man armed robbery syndicate responsible for multiple car thefts and armed attacks across Lagos, Ogun, and Edo States.

The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Anti-Robbery and Anti-Kidnapping Squad after a sustained intelligence-led operation that tracked their activities to the Igando area of Lagos.

During the operation, the police recovered two vehicles, a pump-action rifle, an English pistol, several live cartridges, and assorted charms. A Lexus ES350 earlier linked to the gang was also recovered at a workshop in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Speaking during a press briefing at the residence of one of the suspects in Igando, the Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Olorundare Jimoh, commended the tactical team for their professionalism and the speed with which the operation was executed.

“I am here today to commend our officers for a well-coordinated operation that led to the dismantling of this gang,” CP Jimoh said.
“The Anti-Robbery and Anti-Kidnapping Squad acted on credible intelligence to arrest these suspects and recover several stolen vehicles and firearms used during their operations.”

According to the CP, the gang’s driver who has lived in the area since 2013 was arrested alongside other members of the syndicate. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects specialized in stealing vehicles and robbing motorists at gunpoint, often disguising as passengers to lure victims.

One of the suspects, nicknamed Pastor, told investigators that he was only called by that title because of the “spiritual services” he rendered to the group. Another suspect admitted receiving ₦500,000 per operation as his share of the loot.

Victim’s Report Sparked the Investigation

The successful operation stemmed from a complaint lodged by one of the victims, Mr. Seyi, whose Lexus ES350 was stolen on September 7 at Amikanle, Alagbado, Lagos. His report, channelled through a journalist to the Police Command, prompted a thorough investigation that uncovered the gang’s network and led to their eventual arrest.

Recounting his experience, Seyi narrated how the robbers accosted him at gunpoint, dispossessed him of his valuables, and drove off in his vehicle.

“I was terrified but thankful they didn’t harm me. I immediately reported to the police, and within days, they tracked my car to Ibadan. I am deeply grateful to the Lagos Police Command, especially the Anti-Robbery and Anti-Kidnapping Squad, for their commitment and honesty in recovering my car without any demand for payment,” he said.

CP Warns Motorists Against Picking Strangers

CP Jimoh also used the opportunity to caution motorists especially private car owners and civil servants against offering rides to strangers under the guise of sharing fuel costs, noting that such acts often expose them to criminals posing as passengers.

“I understand the economic reality, but please, do not pick unknown persons to supplement fuel costs,” the CP warned.
“If you cannot afford to fuel your vehicle, it’s safer to park it until you can. We have seen how this dangerous practice has cost innocent people their cars and peace of mind.”

Commendation and Call for Public Vigilance

The Commissioner appreciated the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for providing modern logistics and operational support to the Lagos Command. He also urged residents to be vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or individuals in their communities.

“These arrests show what is possible when the public and the police work together. Every report counts. Speak up, and help us keep Lagos safe,” CP Jimoh added.

The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, ahead of their prosecution.