Six arrested in Lagos “one chance” robbery sting

Abdullateef Fowewe

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested six suspected members of a robbery syndicate allegedly responsible for attacks on commuters along Ago Palace Way in the Okota area, police said on Sunday.

SP Abimbola Adebisi, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer in a statement on Sunday said the suspects were apprehended during a stop-and-search operation.

“Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested six suspected members of a notorious ‘One Chance’ robbery syndicate, allegedly involved in robbing unsuspecting commuters along Ago Palace Way, Okota area of Lagos State,” she said.

According to the statement, officers intercepted a tricycle with registration number AAA 720 QL that was conveying about six occupants and was allegedly attempting to rob citizens.

“On sighting the Police, the suspects reportedly jumped down and abandoned the tricycle,” the police said.

A cutlass and a mobile phone were recovered at the scene, the statement added.

Further investigation, the police said, 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.

Officers reportedly recovered a dummy pistol allegedly used in their operations.

“The suspects will be charged to court on completion of investigation,” the statement added.

The Lagos State Police Command, under CP Tijani Fatai, pledged to continue proactive policing.

“The Lagos State Police Command will maintain its commitment to sustaining proactive policing strategies aimed at combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the State,” the statement read.

The police urged residents to keep providing “timely and credible information to aid ongoing efforts in ridding the State of criminal elements.”