By Our Reporter
The Ogun State Police Command has recorded fresh operational successes under its ongoing Operation KOSAYE , with the arrest of 16 suspects for offences ranging from illegal petroleum product dealings and vandalism to burglary, theft, receiving stolen property and defilement.
The Command said the latest breakthroughs were achieved through intelligence gathering, prompt response to distress calls, forensic investigation and sustained tactical operations across the state, in line with the strategic policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, said the operations also led to the recovery of two vehicles, a stolen motorcycle, four drums of suspected Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 13 jerry cans containing suspected diesel, a pumping machine, a generator and other exhibits.
According to the Command, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit arrested a 51-year-old suspect, Kabiru Afolabi, during a targeted operation at Abule-Iroko, Sango, following intelligence on the activities of an alleged diesel bunkering syndicate.
The police said four drums of suspected AGO, 13 jerry cans containing suspected diesel, a pumping machine and a generator were recovered during the operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
In another operation, detectives attached to the Ota Division arrested two suspects, Nnabike Uzolo, 26, and Chino Mgbenya, 28, over the alleged vandalism of a telecommunications mast cable at Ten Ten Street, Mine, Ota.
The Command said both suspects have been charged to court after investigations.
The Idanyin Division also arrested two suspects, Hammed Olanrewaju and Emmanuel Victor, following a reported burglary at a commercial establishment. Police recovered part of the stolen property from the receiver’s shop, while efforts are ongoing to recover the remaining items and apprehend other accomplices.
Similarly, detectives attached to the Ajuwon Division recovered a stolen Bajaj Boxer motorcycle and arrested a 20-year-old suspect, Mathew Mark, in connection with the theft. The suspect is expected to be charged upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Agbado Division recorded two major breakthroughs. Using forensic tracking technology, detectives traced one of the stolen mobile phones from a house-breaking incident to Sodiq Raji, whose arrest led to the apprehension of three other suspects identified as Zubby Nzube, Adeyemi Omoyajuowo and Chimezie Iwuanya. Some stolen property has been recovered, while investigations continue.
The same division also arrested a 50-year-old suspect, Saliu Akinwande, over the alleged defilement of an 11-year-old girl. Police said the victim was taken for medical examination and treatment, while the suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, for further investigation and prosecution.
In Ijebu Imushin, police operatives foiled the hijacking of a mini truck conveying aluminium doors and window frames along the Benin/Ore Expressway after responding swiftly to intelligence reports.
The hoodlums reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby forest on sighting the police. The recovered truck has since been released to its owner, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.
The Atan Ijebu Division also recovered an abandoned bus after receiving credible information from members of the public. Police said the vehicle has been secured pending identification of its rightful owner.
In separate burglary operations between July 13 and July 21, detectives attached to the Atan Ijebu Division arrested five suspects identified as Ayomide Odufuwa, Adura Adebanjo, Samuel Sunday, Bashiru and Muhammed.
The operations led to the recovery of stolen clothing, household items, bedding materials and other exhibits, while investigations are continuing.
Commending officers involved in the operations, Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni praised their professionalism, vigilance and dedication to duty.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining the momentum of Operation KOSAYE through intelligence-led policing, enhanced visibility patrols, strategic stop-and-search operations, forensic investigation and stronger community partnership.
The police commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to support efforts aimed at combating crime and protecting lives, property and critical national assets across Ogun State.
