Police bust 7-man gang linked to multiple murder, other crimes in Lagos

By Babajide Awoyinfa

Members of seven-man gang linked to alleged murder, armed robbery, stealing, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms led by one ‘Karube’ have been arrested by operatives of ‘Zonal Puff Adder’ of Police in Lagos Zone 2 Command,

The operation that led to the arrest of the suspects began on March 3, when operatives acted on credible intelligence arrested 23-year-old suspect, ‘Karube’ according to statement on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Afolayan Gbenga, at the headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.

He added that Karube subsequently led police operatives to other members of the gang during follow-up operations.

According to him, information from Karube led to a raid on a criminal hideout, ‘Lion’s Den’, on Adeleye Street, Orile Iganmu in Lagos

He said five suspects were arrested at the location, while another, Bansa, was later apprehended at White Sand area after further investigation.

Gbenga said several weapons were recovered, including a locally made cut-to-size shotgun, four cutlasses, a knife, a claw hammer and live cartridges.

“Other items recovered include three expended cartridges and assorted charms,” he added.

He alleged that during interrogation, Bansa confessed to killing a tricycle rider, Ikujowolo, at Shitta under bridge, Surulere, Lagos.

“He told investigators he shot the victim dead during an attack carried out with another suspect identified as ‘Small Messi’,” Gbenga said.

The spokesperson also said the suspects confessed to killing a 40-year-old man identified simply as Okoro on Feb. 14.

“They are also linked to two other killings that occurred on Feb. 18 in the Orile Iganmu area of Lagos,” he said.

Gbenga said the suspects remained in custody and were assisting investigators with cases of multiple murder, armed robbery, cultism and firearms offences.

“They will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” he said.

He added that the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, commended the operatives.

Jimoh praised their professionalism, bravery and commitment, and reaffirmed the command’s resolve to rid Lagos and Ogun of criminal elements.

He urged the public to remain vigilant and support the police with credible and timely information. (NAN)