Lagos police arrest multiple suspects, recover firearms, military uniforms, drugs in June crackdown
By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Lagos State Police Command has recorded major operational successes in June 2026, with the arrest of multiple suspects linked to armed robbery, cultism, vandalism, illegal immigration, impersonation, and unlawful possession of firearms across the state.
Speaking during a press briefing on the command’s achievements for the month, Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, said the command remains committed to protecting lives and property through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and strategic crime prevention.
He disclosed that police operations within the period led to the recovery of 14 firearms, four live cartridges, one MAN diesel truck, 51 mobile phones, two Vehicle Engine Control Units (ECU), one operational motorcycle, 47 sacks of military camouflage uniforms, 80 cartons of suspected illicit substances, vandalized electrical cables, and other incriminating exhibits.
Among the major breakthroughs was the arrest of two suspected cable vandals on Third Mainland Bridge, as well as the recovery of vandalized electric cables.
Police also arrested suspects in Ayetoro-Ijanikin and recovered two double-barrel guns and six locally made single-barrel guns following investigations into theft at a Catholic church under construction.
In a major move against the notorious “One Chance” robbery syndicate, operatives arrested a suspect linked to the gang and recovered 51 mobile phones suspected to be proceeds of robbery operations.
The command also recorded a major seizure after operatives attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit intercepted an unregistered MAN diesel truck loaded with 47 sacks of military camouflage uniforms and 80 cartons of suspected illicit substances. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the operation, while investigations revealed the items were allegedly being transported to the eastern part of the country.
Police further arrested suspected cult members linked to the Eiye Confraternity and recovered an English Beretta pistol loaded with 10 live ammunition, a jack knife, and a locally made pistol.
In separate operations, suspects involved in armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms were arrested in Ilupeju, Ipaja, and other parts of the state, with additional firearms and cartridges recovered.
The command also rescued 38 foreign nationals from possible mob action in Epe. Preliminary investigations revealed that 20 of them entered Nigeria illegally, while 18 possessed valid ECOWAS travel documents. The matter has been referred to the Nigerian Immigration Service and relevant embassies.
Additionally, police arrested suspects for impersonation, including fake military personnel and individuals posing as members of the Nigerian Army and Navy.
CP Fatai reassured residents that there would be no safe haven for criminal elements in Lagos, urging the public to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information to strengthen crime prevention and law enforcement.