Police in Lagos Zone 2 Command have arrested seven suspected criminals linked to offences across the state in a targeted operation by the ‘Zonal Puff Adder’ team.

This is contained in a statement on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Afolayan Gbenga, at the headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.

Gbenga said the suspects were arrested over alleged murder, armed robbery, stealing, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms.

He explained that the operation began on March 3, when operatives acted on credible intelligence and arrested a 23-year-old suspect, ‘Karube’.

“Karube subsequently led operatives to other members of the gang during follow-up operations,” Gbenga said.

According to him, information from the suspect led to a raid on a criminal hideout, ‘Lion’s Den’, on Adeleye Street, Orile Iganmu.

He said five suspects were arrested at the location, while another, Bansa, was later apprehended at White Sand area after further investigation.

Gbenga said several weapons were recovered, including a locally made cut-to-size shotgun, four cutlasses, a knife, a claw hammer and live cartridges.

“Other items recovered include three expended cartridges and assorted charms,” he added.

He alleged that during interrogation, Bansa confessed to killing a tricycle rider, Ikujowolo, at Shitta under bridge, Surulere.

Read Also: Police detain tricyclist over officer’s death

“He told investigators he shot the victim dead during an attack carried out with another suspect identified as ‘Small Messi’,” Gbenga said.

The spokesperson also said the suspects confessed to killing a 40-year-old man identified simply as Okoro on Feb. 14.

“They are also linked to two other killings that occurred on Feb. 18 in the Orile Iganmu area,” he said.

Gbenga said the suspects remained in custody and were assisting investigators with cases of multiple murder, armed robbery, cultism and firearms offences.

“They will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” he said.

He added that the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, commended the operatives.

Jimoh praised their professionalism, bravery and commitment, and reaffirmed the command’s resolve to rid Lagos and Ogun of criminal elements.

He urged the public to remain vigilant and support the police with credible and timely information.

(NAN)