The Oyo State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a vehicle-snatching syndicate believed to be responsible for a series of robberies targeting motorists in Ibadan and surrounding communities.
The suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-driven operation carried out by operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following reports of planned criminal activities within the state capital.
According to a statement issued by the command on Tuesday, security operatives received credible intelligence on June 20 indicating that a group of suspected robbers, known for stealing high-value vehicles, were preparing to assemble in the Olorunsogo area of Ibadan ahead of planned operations both within and outside the city.
Acting on the information, the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed VCRU operatives to launch a coordinated operation aimed at disrupting the gang’s activities and apprehending those involved.
The operation led to the arrest of three suspects identified as 39-year-old Akinpelu Afeez, popularly known as “Starboy”; Taiwo Adams, 45, alias “Adamson”; and 35-year-old Salawudeen Taofeeq, also known as “T.K.”
Police said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly involved in several vehicle-snatching incidents across the Ibadan metropolis. During interrogation, they reportedly confessed to participating in the crimes and admitted using locally made firearms to carry out their operations.
Following the confessions, detectives secured a search warrant and raided the suspects’ hideout located in the Aremo area of the city.
The search resulted in the recovery of two locally fabricated cut-to-size single-barrel guns and six live cartridges concealed within the premises.
The command stated that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the syndicate, as well as individuals suspected of purchasing stolen vehicles and benefiting from the proceeds of the criminal activities.
Police authorities reaffirmed their commitment to tackling violent crimes and dismantling criminal networks operating across Oyo State.
The Commissioner of Police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement agencies with timely and actionable information that could aid ongoing investigations and crime-fighting efforts.
The command stressed that it remains determined to ensure that Oyo State remains hostile to criminal elements while guaranteeing the safety and security of law-abiding residents.