Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested six suspected members of a notorious “one-chance” robbery syndicate accused of terrorising residents of Okota and neighbouring communities in Lagos.
Police also recovered a dummy pistol, a cutlass, and the operational tricycle allegedly used by the gang during their operations.
The command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to her, the suspects were apprehended during a stop-and-search operation conducted by police operatives along Ago Palace Way in the Okota area.
She explained that a tricycle with registration number AAA 720 QL, conveying about six occupants, was intercepted while the suspects allegedly attempted to rob unsuspecting commuters.
“On sighting the police, the suspects reportedly jumped down and abandoned the tricycle. A cutlass allegedly used for their operations and a mobile phone were recovered at the scene,” the statement said.
Further investigations led to the arrest of the six suspects identified as Basiru Rilwan, 23; Afeez Akeem, 25; Ademola Yekeen, 20; Sodipo Oyeyemi, 27; Ayomide Gafar; and Fabayo Michael, 28.
Police said the suspects were found in possession of a dummy pistol allegedly used to intimidate victims during robbery operations.
The command added that the suspects would be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to proactive policing and combating criminal activities across the state under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai.