The Oyo State Police Command has arrested five suspects for unlawful possession of a firearm following an intelligence-led operation at Oke Labo area of Ibadan.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, who disclosed this on Friday, said the operation, conducted at about 11:16 a.m. on 11th November 2026, followed credible information received by detectives attached to the Mapo Divisional Headquarters.
According to him, acting promptly on the intelligence, the detectives moved to the location and conducted a search of a building at Oke Labo, Ibadan, leading to the arrest of five suspects identified as Ijo Lekan, 28; Abdulateef Ishola, 26; Idowu Rasheed, 19; Azeez Olalekan, 23; and Seun Adeniran, 24, while other suspects connected to the operation remain at large.
“The operation also led to the recovery of one locally made pistol and seven live cartridges.
“During interrogation the suspects confessed to being members of an armed robbery syndicate and admitted to participating in several violent attacks and other criminal activities within Ibadan.
“They are currently cooperating with investigators, providing useful information to facilitate the identification and arrest of other members of the syndicate and the recovery of additional evidence,” he said.
In view of these developments, Olayinka said the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga has directed a comprehensive investigation to unravel the full extent of the suspects’ criminal activities, identify other members of the syndicate and ensure that all persons connected to the crimes are brought to justice.
The Command reiterated its resolve to sustain proactive, intelligence-led policing and intensify efforts to rid Oyo State of illegal firearms and criminal elements.
Members of the public were encouraged to provide timely and credible information to assist the police, while being assured of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
