Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a suspected arms dealer accused of manufacturing and supplying firearms to criminal networks within the state and across four neighbouring states – Osun, Kogi, Edo, and Kwara.
The breakthrough followed the arrest of three suspects linked to an armed robbery in Irele, where a female victim was dispossessed of her unregistered TVS motorcycle, ₦250,000, and other valuables, before being shot in the right leg.
Police investigations later led to the arrest of the alleged gun supplier, described as a key figure in the criminal chain.
Spokesperson of the command, Olusola Ayanlade, said the development marked a critical step in weakening criminal syndicates operating across the region.
“The arrest of this key figure marks a major step forward in dismantling the chain of supply that has fueled violent crimes such as armed robbery and other unlawful activities across the region,” Ayanlade said in a statement issued in Akure.
According to him, four suspects connected to the Irele robbery have already been arraigned in court on charges of armed robbery and attempted murder. Efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the syndicate.
The state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, praised officers for their diligence and assured residents of the command’s commitment to security.
“There will be no hiding place for criminals in Ondo State. We shall continue to pursue them, dismantle their networks, and ensure that peace and security prevail across every community,” Lawal said.
The command also urged members of the public to support security efforts by providing timely intelligence.
“All information volunteered will be treated with the utmost confidentiality as the Police and the community work together to secure a safer Ondo State,” the statement added.
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