Police Arrest Three Suspected Robbers, Recover Toy Pistol in Ibadan Operation
The Oyo State Police Command has successfully apprehended three individuals suspected of armed robbery during a routine patrol operation in Ibadan, as part of ongoing initiatives to combat criminal activities and bolster public safety across the region.
Details of the Arrest and Recovery
In a statement released by the Command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, it was confirmed that the suspects were taken into custody on April 6, 2026, at approximately 12:30 p.m. by operatives from the Bodija Market Division. The arrest occurred along Awolowo Road in the Bodija area, where the suspects were intercepted while riding a Bajaj motorcycle with the registration number BDJ 386 QH.
The individuals involved have been identified as:
- Godwin Cletus, aged 26, who operated the motorcycle.
- Adedokun Isah, aged 17, a passenger.
- Rafiu Usman, aged 19, another passenger.
All three suspects are residents of the Gbaremu area in Ibadan, according to police records.
Search and Discovery of Evidence
The interception was prompted by reasonable suspicion, leading to a thorough search of the suspects and their belongings. During this search, law enforcement officers recovered a toy pistol that was concealed within a black bag. Additionally, six mobile phones were found in their possession, further raising concerns about their activities.
Police authorities noted that the discovery of these items heightened suspicion and resulted in the immediate arrest of the suspects. Preliminary investigations have suggested their possible involvement in various criminal endeavors, with ongoing efforts to uncover more details.
Confessions and Ongoing Investigations
During subsequent interrogations, the suspects reportedly confessed to robbing unsuspecting members of the public of their valuables. These confessional statements have provided valuable leads, aiding police in their ongoing investigations to determine the full scope of the suspects' operations and identify any other individuals linked to the alleged criminal network.
Currently, the suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue to progress. The Oyo State Police Command is committed to ensuring a thorough examination of the case to bring all responsible parties to justice.
Commendation and Public Appeal
In response to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, praised the vigilance and professionalism demonstrated by the operatives involved. He also expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police for the sustained support and leadership provided to the command.
CP Olugbenga urged residents to remain vigilant and to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining public safety and preventing crime.
