The Lagos state Police command has announced a major breakthrough in crime detection with the arrest of John Samuel, a 28-year-old from Akwa Ibom state, who is believed to be a notorious armed robbery kingpin and murderer.

He was apprehended in his hideout in Epe on September 19, 2025, blueprint.ng reports.

Samuel is the primary suspect in a broad daylight armed robbery that occurred on August 18, 2025, on Allen Avenue, Ikeja.

In the attack, he allegedly shot and wounded a businessman, Gbenga Obama, before robbing him of an expensive gold necklace and other valuables.

According to the police deputy spokesperson, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, John Samuel is an ex-convict who had only recently been released from prison on August 18, 2025, after serving a six-year sentence for a similar capital offense.

Oluseyi said Samuel quickly returned to a life of crime with even more viciousness, having a reputation for shooting his victims before robbing them.

“CCTV footage of the Allen Avenue incident confirmed the details of the attack. It clearly showed the suspect firing an English pistol at the victim while an accomplice waited on a motorcycle for their getaway.

“The victim was treated for his gunshot wounds and has since been discharged from the hospital.

“Samuel confessed to selling the stolen gold jewelry for ₦4 million, an amount significantly lower than its actual value. The Lagos State Police Command is now working to find and arrest the other members of his gang,” Oluseyi stated.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, praised the officers for their gallantry and commitment in making the arrest.

He reassured Lagosians that a discreet investigation is ongoing and that all suspects will be prosecuted upon completion.

The Command also issued a stern warning to criminals, stating that Lagos has no hiding place for them.