Police smash generator theft network in Ogun

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Ogun Police Command has listed arrest of six suspects and recovery of two guns and five suspected stolen generators among the recent achievements of its operatives in operations conducted across Abeokuta, Wasimi and Ibafo area of the state.

Oluseyi Babaseyi, the spokesperson for Ogun Police Command who announced this in a statement on Wednesday identified the arrested suspects as Afisu Awesu ‘M’, Bala Aminu ‘M’, Moruf Sodiq ‘M’ alias “Okiki”, Mumuni Amodu ‘M’ alias “Stone”, Abayomi John ‘M’ alias “Ibafo”, and Mr Adeboye Ojesina ‘M’.

According to him, the intelligence-led operations was carried out by the operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), and Ibafo Division.

Giving details of the operation, Babaseyi said acting on credible and time-sensitive intelligence on May 30, 2026, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit swiftly trailed and arrested Moruf Sodiq ‘M’ alias “Okiki”, a key suspect linked to a coordinated generator theft network operating within Abeokuta and environs.

He said the suspect promptly led operatives to Mumuni Amodu alias “Stone”, identified as the receiver of stolen property.

“A swift search of the premises led to the recovery of four Elepaq generators, one Sumec Fireman generator, and nine Android mobile phones suspected to have been recently stolen.

Babaseyi said the operatives also arrested Abayomi John alias “Ibafo”, a motorcyclist who allegedly provided rapid logistics support, conveying suspects to targeted locations during operations.

“The suspects are currently in custody while discreet investigation continues to identify and arrest other members of the syndicate,” Babaseyi said.

In another operation, Babaseyi said June 12, 2026, acting on credible and actionable intelligence, operatives of SWAT Unit apprehended 58-year-old Adeboye Ojesina in connection with unlawful possession of firearms and alleged use of same to threaten residents within Wasimi and adjoining communities.

“A prompt search led to the recovery of one locally fabricated pistol, one pump-action rifle, two live cartridges, and one expended cartridge,” he said.

“The suspect initially denied ownership but later made a statement claiming he recovered the pistol within the area and discharged a round to test its functionality, while also alleging the pump-action rifle was handed over to him by an unidentified individual currently being trailed by operatives.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other persons connected to the case, while the suspect remains in custody as investigation progresses.

The Ogun Police Command spokesperson further alleged that on June 13, 2026, operatives attached to Ibafo Division, acting swiftly on a complaint of theft at a site in Igbeti Sote Village via Ibafo, launched immediate investigative action which led to the interception of one Afisu Awesu while attempting to steal a forklift engine component with an accomplice who escaped.

“Further rapid investigation revealed that the suspects had earlier stolen forklift tyres from the same location and disposed of same to Bala Aminu ‘M’ of Kara, Ibafo. Acting without delay, detectives arrested Bala Aminu as the alleged receiver of stolen property.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing accomplice and fully dismantle the criminal network. The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.

“The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni commends the swift response, professionalism, and operational efficiency of the VCRU, SWAT, and Ibafo Division in the execution of these successful operations.

“The CP reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to rapid, intelligence-driven policing and sustained pressure on criminal elements to ensure they have no space to operate within Ogun State. He further assures residents of continued proactive policing and swift response to security threats,” Babaseyi said.