By Esther Onyegbula
Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 22-year-old suspect, Olamide Suleiman, during a stop-and-search operation in the Aguda area of the state, recovering firearms and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
The command also said it had launched a manhunt for a fleeing accomplice linked to the recovered weapons.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the suspect was intercepted along Adetola Road, Aguda, during a routine stop-and-search operation by police operatives.
She said a search conducted on Suleiman led to the recovery of dry leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
A further search of his bag, according to the police, uncovered a locally made pistol loaded with one live cartridge.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the recovered firearm allegedly belonged to one Emir, who was said to be staying at a hotel in the Aguda area.
“The suspect allegedly confessed during interrogation that the recovered pistol belonged to one Emir, who was lodging at a hotel in Aguda.
“Acting swiftly on the information, police operatives proceeded to the hotel, where a search of the room allegedly occupied by the said Emir led to the recovery of one double-barrel gun,” the statement read.
The command, however, said the principal suspect escaped before the arrival of the operatives at the hotel.
“The principal suspect, however, fled before the arrival of the operatives. Investigation is ongoing, while concerted efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect and other members of the criminal gang,” Adebisi added.
Commending the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, psc, mnips, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling criminal activities across the state.
He urged residents to continue partnering with the police by providing timely and credible information that would assist in crime prevention and detection.
“The Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines,” the commissioner said.
The Lagos State Police Command listed its emergency contact numbers as 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, 08080193432 (Marine), and 09168630929 for reporting security-related incidents.
