The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 21-year-old suspected armed robber, Samson Onilewaji, who was allegedly found in possession of a suspected human right hand, two locally made pistols, one live cartridge, two axes, a Point of Sale (POS) terminal, and five Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards. The arrest occurred during a stop-and-search operation along the Lekki-Epe Expressway.
Arrest During Routine Security Operation
According to the police command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, the suspect was travelling in an unregistered commercial shuttle bus with five other occupants when operatives intercepted the vehicle during a routine security operation. A search of the vehicle and its occupants led to the recovery of the items from Onilewaji.
Suspect Confesses to Recent Robberies
“The suspect confessed to having recently robbed three individuals of their personal belongings, including the recovered POS terminal machine and ATM cards,” the statement said. Police are working to identify and contact the victims to return their belongings. Investigators are also trying to establish the identity of the owner of the suspected human hand and the circumstances surrounding its possession.
Ongoing Investigation and Court Appearance
The command said efforts have been intensified to identify and apprehend other suspects believed to be connected with the case. Onilewaji will be charged in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Broader Security Efforts
The arrest comes as the Lagos State Police Command continues to intensify stop-and-search operations and other security measures across major roads and communities to curb armed robbery, the proliferation of illegal firearms, and other violent crimes. In recent months, the command has announced a series of arrests of suspected criminals and the recovery of weapons in separate operations across the state.
Reacting to the arrest, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, reiterated the command’s commitment to combating violent crime and other criminal activities. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing the police with timely and credible information to help prevent crime and enhance public safety. The police also encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities through the command’s emergency lines.
