By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested three suspects and recovered a locally fabricated pistol during an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation along Old Oyo Road in the Fiditi area.
Operatives attached to the Restore Peace Unit carried out the operation near the American International School, Bethel.
According to the police, operatives intercepted a commercial bus during a routine operation and subjected passengers and their luggage to thorough searches.
Suspicion arose when three passengers allegedly attempted to flee as security attention turned toward them. Following a brief chase, the operatives apprehended the suspects, identified as 31-year-old Kilani Abbas from Onaara-Amoloko, 38-year-old Toheed Adediwura from the Kolobo Area of Oyo, and 40-year-old Ibrahim Rafiu from the Sanga Area of Oyo.
A subsequent search linked to the suspects led to the recovery of a locally made pistol and assorted charms concealed inside a nylon bag.
The suspects remain in custody while investigations proceed to determine the source of the firearm, its intended use, and any potential links to criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police for Oyo State, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbemiga, described the recovery as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations in preventing crime and intercepting dangerous weapons.
The CP urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely, credible information, assuring them that all tips would be treated with professional confidentiality.
He further reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining proactive policing strategies, including visibility patrols, to safeguard lives and property throughout the state