Detectives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a notorious gunrunner and local arms fabricator allegedly linked to supplying firearms to criminal gangs across Ondo, Osun, Kogi, Edo, and Kwara States.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olushola Ayanlade, who confirmed the arrest in Akure, said it followed an armed robbery incident in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State.
According to Ayanlade, the armed men stormed Irele town, attacked a woman, and dispossessed her of a TVS motorcycle, N250,000 cash, and other valuables before being confronted by security operatives. One of the suspects was shot in the leg during the encounter.
“Police operatives in the area swiftly arrested one suspect in Irele, while two others were later tracked down at a hotel in Ore, Odigbo LGA,” the PPRO explained.
Further investigations, he said, led to the arrest of the gunrunner, who had long been on the Command’s watchlist.
“The breakthrough is a significant step in disrupting the supply of arms fueling violent crimes such as robbery and banditry in the region,” Ayanlade stated.
He disclosed that four suspects have already been arraigned on charges of armed robbery and attempted murder, while efforts are underway to apprehend other fleeing accomplices.
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the officers for the feat, vowing that there would be no safe haven for criminals in the state.
“There will be no hiding place for criminals in Ondo State. We shall continue to pursue them, dismantle their networks, and ensure peace and security prevail across every community,” he assured.
The police urged residents to support security operations with credible information, assuring that all reports would be treated with utmost confidentiality.