Detectives of the Ondo State Police Command have apprehended a notorious gunrunner and local arms manufacturer who allegedly supplied firearms to criminal gangs operating across four states.
According to Nigerian Tribune, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olushola Ayanlade, disclosed the development to journalists in Akure. He explained that the arrest was linked to an armed robbery incident in Irele, Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State.
According to Ayanlade, the robbers stormed the community, attacked a woman, and dispossessed her of an unregistered TVS motorcycle, cash sum of N250,000, and other valuables. One of the suspects was shot in the leg during the operation.
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He noted that police operatives swiftly responded and arrested one suspect in Irele, while two others were later apprehended at a hotel in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
Further investigations led to the capture of the suspected gunrunner, who had been on the command’s watchlist for a long period. The PPRO revealed that the suspect’s illegal firearms network extended to Osun, Kogi, Edo, and Kwara States.
Describing the operation as a major success, Ayanlade said, “The breakthrough is a significant step in disrupting the supply of arms fueling violent crimes such as robbery and banditry in the region.”
He added that four suspects have already been arraigned in court on charges of armed robbery and attempted murder, while security operatives continue to pursue other fleeing accomplices.
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended his men for their efforts, assuring residents of the command’s commitment to public safety.
The CP said, “There will be no hiding place for criminals in Ondo State. We shall continue to pursue them, dismantle their networks, and ensure peace and security prevail across every community.”
The police also urged members of the public to support ongoing security operations with credible information, assuring that all reports would be treated with strict confidentiality.
