Police arrest couple, woman over illegal pistol possession in Lagos

Police in Lagos have arrested a couple and another woman after a semi-automatic pistol was discovered in their possession during a routine stop-and-search operation in the Ipaja area of the state.

Officers attached to the Ipaja Police Division intercepted two women during the patrol and carried out a bag search, which led to the recovery of the firearm. The arrest was confirmed by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, in a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday.

Hundeyin explained that the search was conducted in a non-intrusive manner and described the officers’ actions as professional and measured.

“‘See these police officers harassing two ladies, insisting on searching their bags…’ That would have been the narrative,” he wrote, suggesting how the situation might have been mischaracterised on social media.

He continued, “After a cursory and non-intrusive look at the contents of their bags, this semi-automatic pistol was found in their possession by police officers of Ipaja Division.

“One of the women then took officers to her husband, who was identified as the owner of the firearm.”

Following the arrest, the case was handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further inquiries.

Hundeyin noted that the operation reflects the ongoing efforts by the Command to curb the spread of illegal firearms in Lagos.

He remarked, “One less illegal firearm in circulation. #LagosPoliceNG is your friend!”

As of the time of this report, police have yet to release the identities of the suspects. Investigations are ongoing to determine how the weapon was obtained and what it was intended for.

The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its determination to reduce the presence of illegal arms across the state. Officers also issued a warning that unlawful possession of firearms remains a serious offence under Nigerian law and will be prosecuted accordingly.