The Lagos State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing fight against crime, with the arrest of 47 suspects and recovery of arms, vehicles, and other exhibits across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Olaiwola Fatai, made this known while briefing journalists, noting that the achievements followed intelligence-led operations and strengthened community partnerships since he assumed office.
According to him, the Command’s strategic deployment of personnel across key locations, including worship centres, highways, recreational venues, and other public spaces, helped ensure a peaceful Easter celebration without major security breaches.
Within the period under review, police recovered 14 firearms, 10 locally made and four pump-action guns, alongside 96 rounds of 5.2mm ammunition, 29 cartridges, 14 vehicles, and several electronic devices, including laptops and mobile phones.
The Commissioner highlighted the arrest of 21 suspected cultists on April 5, 2026, noting that cult-related violence remains one of the prevalent security challenges in the state. He, however, stated that sustained intelligence-driven operations have continued to yield positive results.
In a separate operation on March 27, the Command foiled a threat-to-life and ransom scheme in the Ojo area, arresting an 18-year-old suspect who allegedly attempted to collect ₦20 million. Items recovered included a laptop and a flash drive, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend accomplices.
The police also recorded a breakthrough in a high-profile fraud case involving a 62-year-old Syrian national, Robert Smith, accused of defrauding a microfinance bank of ₦130 million.
The command also said six exotic vehicles, valued at about $520,000, have been recovered, including Lexus and Mercedes models, with efforts ongoing to recover others.
Further operations led to the arrest of suspects linked to armed robbery and vehicle vandalisation, with the recovery of multiple SUVs, tools, and suspected criminal charms.
CP Fatai reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led policing, visibility patrols, and community engagement to enhance safety across Lagos. He also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to support crime prevention efforts.
“All suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” he added, stressing that the Command remains resolute in tackling criminal activities in the state.
Leave a Reply