In a swift and decisive action, operatives from the Ikeja Division of the Lagos State Police Command arrested a notorious ‘one chance’ kingpin and two of his gang members on Monday.
The breakthrough came during a routine patrol along Agege Motor Road, where officers responded to a desperate distress call from a victim being robbed inside a minibus.
The suspects, identified as Bode Oludayisin, 53, Michael Sowunmi, 22, and David Olawaye, 20, were caught red-handed in an unregistered commercial minibus, known locally as a Korope.
Police confirmed that Oludayisin is a wanted gang leader linked to multiple violent ‘one chance’ robberies across Lagos.
These crimes involve criminals posing as passengers or drivers in public transport vehicles to lure unsuspecting commuters, only to divert them to isolated spots for robbery under threat of violence.
According to police reports, the victim raised an alarm as the gang attempted to rob them, alerting nearby officers who quickly intercepted the vehicle.
The minibus has been impounded as the gang’s main operational tool. During the search, authorities recovered several items used in the crimes, including a Tecno Spark 20 smartphone stolen from a victim, an axe, two concrete interlock bricks, heavy stones believed to have been weapons in past assaults, and a broken bottle. All these have been logged as evidence.
Investigations revealed the gang’s typical tactics: They would board or drive Korope minibuses, pick up passengers from busy areas like Oshodi, and then veer off to remote locations. There, victims faced threats, beatings, and intimidation to hand over valuables.
“This arrest disrupts a dangerous network that has terrorized commuters for months,” said CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police Public Relations Officer for Lagos State Command.
The case has now been handed over to the Command’s Special Squad 1, which is working to track down other fleeing members and fully dismantle the syndicate.
Commissioner of Police CP Olohundare Jimoh praised the Ikeja officers for their quick response, noting that it not only captured a key wanted suspect but also prevented further harm. “Our officers’ vigilance has saved lives and restored some safety to our roads,” Jimoh stated.
In light of this incident, the commissioner urged Lagos residents to stay alert. He advised avoiding unmarked or suspicious vehicles, especially at night or in less crowded areas, and to report any odd behavior immediately. Emergency lines for the Lagos State Police Command are 08063299264 and 09168631003.
This arrest highlights ongoing efforts by the Lagos Police to combat street crimes amid rising concerns over public transport safety. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as investigations continue. For more updates on safety and local news, visit bestlagos.ng.
