The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a 19-year-old man alongside two teenage accomplices in connection with a string of armed robbery incidents across Ibadan and other parts of the state.
The suspects were apprehended during a routine stop-and-search operation carried out by operatives of the Command’s Operations Department, police authorities confirmed on Thursday.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the suspects were intercepted while riding in an unregistered commercial tricycle popularly known as Keke Maruwa.
“During the operation, officers stopped an unregistered tricycle conveying three young men. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of one locally made single-barrel firearm that had been modified into a short arm for easy concealment,” Olayinka stated.
The suspects were identified as Abdulrahman Rasheed, 19; Biodun Fatai, 18; and Muiz Salawudeen, 18.
Following their arrest, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Femi Haruna, ordered that the case be transferred to the Command Monitoring Unit for further investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed that the suspects and recovered exhibit be handed over for a discreet, professional and intelligence-led investigation,” the police spokesperson said.
Police authorities disclosed that preliminary interrogation revealed the suspects’ involvement in multiple robbery attacks within Ibadan and neighbouring communities.
“The suspects confessed to participating in several armed robbery operations across Ibadan and other parts of Oyo State. They admitted to targeting mobile phones, motorcycles and other valuables from residents at gunpoint,” Olayinka added.
The Command described the arrest as a result of effective policing strategies and intelligence gathering, reaffirming its commitment to public safety.
“This arrest underscores the effectiveness of our proactive policing measures. The Oyo State Police Command remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property across the state,” the statement noted.
The police also commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his leadership and support in strengthening crime prevention efforts nationwide.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects remain in custody and will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.
“They will be charged to court accordingly. Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities through the Oyo State Police emergency toll-free line 615,” the statement concluded.
