Police arrest 22-year-old, recover firearms, suspected Indian hemp in Lagos
By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
A 22 year old suspect, Olamide Suleiman, has been arrested by operatives of the Lagos State Police Command during a stop-and-search operation in the Aguda area of Lagos, with firearms and substances suspected to be Indian hemp recovered.
The arrest, which took place along Adetola Road, Aguda, also led to the recovery of a locally made pistol loaded with one live cartridge and a double-barrel gun, while police have launched a manhunt for another suspect identified simply as Emir.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, officers intercepted Suleiman during a routine stop-and-search operation. A search allegedly led to the recovery of dry leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, while a further search of his bag uncovered the loaded locally made pistol.
The Command said the suspect, during interrogation, allegedly confessed that the pistol belonged to Emir, who was reportedly lodging in a hotel within the Aguda area.
Acting on the information, police operatives immediately proceeded to the hotel, where a search of the room allegedly occupied by the fleeing suspect resulted in the recovery of a double-barrel gun.
However, Emir reportedly escaped before the arrival of the operatives.
The police said investigation into the matter is ongoing, adding that efforts have been intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect and other members of the criminal gang.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, commended the vigilance and professionalism of the operatives, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements.
He also urged residents to continue supporting the police by providing timely and credible information that would aid crime prevention and detection across the state.
The Command further advised members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles and activities to the nearest police station or through its designated emergency lines.