The Ondo State Police Command has smashed a notorious interstate armed robbery syndicate allegedly terrorising parts of Ondo and Lagos States, with the arrest of three suspects on Saturday, 18 July 2026. The Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists in Akure.
Arrest of Suspects and Recovery of Weapons
According to CP Ohagwu, the suspects—Promise Daniel (34), Ifeanyi Umahi (29), and Adaramoye Abayomi (37)—were arrested following a painstaking intelligence-led operation. The arrest was in connection with an armed robbery case initially reported on 14 June 2026 at Iju Division, Ita-Ogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area.
Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, operatives intercepted the suspects while they were travelling in a Mercedes-Benz ML 350 SUV (ash colour). A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of: one AK-47 rifle; one magazine loaded with eighteen (18) rounds of live ammunition; one English-made Beretta pistol loaded with four (4) rounds of live ammunition; one UTC axe; and one iron cutter.
Preliminary Investigation and Confessions
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are members of a notorious armed robbery syndicate that has been on the command’s watchlist for alleged involvement in violent robberies across Ondo State. The commissioner stated that the suspects made useful confessions during interrogation regarding the ownership of the recovered weapons and other criminal activities. “The information provided is currently assisting investigators in tracking down other fleeing members of the gang and uncovering the full extent of their operations,” he said.
Separate Attack on Motorist
The arrest comes hours after gunmen ambushed one Adebusoye Atinuke, 50, along Ondo–Ile-Oluji Road on Sunday, 19 July, but were unsuccessful in stopping her. Police confirmed that the gunmen opened fire at her vehicle as she drove along the road at about 6:30 p.m., but she courageously continued to drive speedily without halting despite the rain of bullets.
According to police spokesperson, Jimoh Abayomi, the command has commenced a full-scale investigation and manhunt for the armed men who attacked Mrs Adebusoye. “The assailants opened fire on the vehicle in an apparent attempt to stop and rob the victim. However, through swift thinking and courage, the victim escaped unhurt, forcing the suspects to flee into the nearby bush without achieving their objective,” the police spokesperson said.
Operatives immediately responded to the scene and commenced intensive combing of the surrounding area to apprehend the fleeing suspects. “Investigation into the incident is ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to identify, track and arrest those responsible,” he added.
Broader Security Context
The state is in a battle to curtail the activities of kidnappers and armed robbers, with several arrests already made by the respective security agencies. The police command continues to urge the public to provide credible information that can help in combating crime.
