The Ondo State Police Command has arrested four members of a notorious armed robbery gang known for violent attacks and car thefts across Akure, Owo, and nearby towns.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the breakthrough was announced by the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, on Sunday, July 6, 2025, during a press briefing in Akure.
Lawal revealed that the gang was responsible for a high-profile robbery that occurred in Akure on June 27, involving the theft of a vehicle and other valuables.
“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives from the Tactical Intelligence and Response Squad (TIRS) tracked down and arrested two prime suspects outside Ondo State,” the police boss disclosed.
Further investigations led to the arrest of two more individuals, including a suspect believed to be a habitual receiver of stolen property.
Lawal added that the group belongs to a broader criminal network specializing in car snatching and trafficking of stolen items across state lines.
So far, police operatives have recovered a stolen vehicle and several mobile phones.
Efforts are ongoing to trace additional stolen property and apprehend a suspected arms supplier still at large.
In a separate incident, the Ondo State Police Command also recovered livestock valued at ₦41 million.
The theft involved an employee, identified as Ali Garuba Muhammed, who allegedly absconded with 55 cows and eight sheep belonging to his employer, Prince Fasua Peter Oyeleye.
According to Commissioner Lawal, Oyeleye filed a complaint on July 1 after discovering that his worker had disappeared with the livestock.
A swift operation by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit led to the recovery of 22 of the stolen cows within 48 hours.
The suspect remains at large, and police say efforts are ongoing to locate him and recover the remaining animals.
“This operation is a clear demonstration of the Ondo State Police Command’s capacity to tackle organized crime through strategic, intelligence-driven efforts,” Lawal stated.
He assured residents that the police would not relent in their efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within the state.
Lawal reaffirmed the command’s dedication to protecting lives and property and urged members of the public to continue providing useful information to aid law enforcement.
The successful arrest of the armed robbery gang and the recovery of high-value livestock have drawn praise from local communities, who commended the police for their swift and professional action.
👇👇👇
Follow DDM Whatsapp channel