Lagos Police Crack Down on Crime: 14 Firearms Recovered, Cultists, Robbers, Fake Soldiers Nabbed in June Sweep
The Lagos State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing battle against crime, arresting dozens of suspects involved in armed robbery, cultism, illegal possession of firearms, impersonation, vandalism, and illegal immigration during operations conducted across the state in June 2026.
Addressing journalists, the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, said the successes underscore the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, and the protection of lives and property throughout Lagos.
According to the police chief, operatives recovered 14 firearms, four live cartridges, 51 mobile phones, two vehicle Engine Control Units (ECUs), an operational motorcycle, a MAN diesel truck loaded with military camouflage uniforms, 80 cartons of suspected illicit substances, vandalized electrical cables, and other incriminating exhibits during the month under review.
Cable Vandals Caught on Third Mainland Bridge
In one of the notable operations, police patrol teams arrested two suspected cable vandals identified as Ikenegboge Godwin and Aondoaka Jacob while allegedly vandalizing electric cables on the Third Mainland Bridge. The suspects were apprehended with recovered cables, while efforts continue to track down other members of the syndicate.
Illegal Firearms Recovered in Church Theft Investigation
A report of stolen iron rods from a Catholic church under construction in Ayetoro-Ijanikin led to the arrest of Emeka Okolie. Subsequent investigations resulted in the arrest of two additional suspects and the recovery of eight firearms, including two double-barrel guns and six locally fabricated single-barrel guns.
Police Bust “One Chance” Robbery Syndicate
The Command also recorded a breakthrough against the notorious “One Chance” robbery network. Detectives arrested a suspect believed to be part of a gang that used specially acquired vehicles to rob unsuspecting commuters. During the operation, 51 mobile phones suspected to be proceeds of crime were recovered.
Stolen Vehicle Components Recovered
At Festac Town, officers on stop-and-search duty arrested a suspect found in possession of two vehicle Engine Control Units, popularly called “brain boxes.” Investigators suspect the components may have been stolen, while efforts are underway to identify their source.
Cultists, Armed Robbers and Gun Runners Rounded Up
Several operations across Ilupeju, Ipaja, Igando and other parts of the state led to the arrest of suspected cultists and armed robbery suspects.
Police recovered pistols, cartridges, ammunition and other weapons from suspects believed to be linked to the Eiye and Alora confraternities. Investigators say many of the suspects confessed to involvement in criminal activities, while manhunts continue for fleeing accomplices.
Fake Soldiers Arrested with Pump-Action Gun
In a separate intelligence-led operation, police arrested two individuals allegedly masquerading as military personnel. A pump-action gun was recovered from the suspects, who were later found not to be members of the Nigerian Army.
Another major breakthrough came when operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit intercepted a truck carrying 47 sacks of military camouflage uniforms alongside 80 cartons of suspected illicit substances. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the haul, while investigators seek to uncover the source and intended destination of the items.
Foreign Nationals Rescued in Epe
The Command also rescued 38 foreign nationals from possible mob action in Epe. Preliminary investigations revealed that 20 of the individuals entered Nigeria illegally, while 18 possessed valid ECOWAS travel documents. The matter has since been referred to relevant immigration authorities and diplomatic missions.
Impersonators Face Prosecution
Police further arrested multiple suspects for impersonating military personnel. Among them was a man allegedly dressed in Nigerian Navy combat attire and carrying fake identification cards. Another suspect who claimed to be a serving soldier was later discovered to have been dismissed from military service in 2024.
Lagos Remains Hostile to Criminals – CP Fatai
Reaffirming the Command’s resolve, CP Fatai warned that Lagos would remain a hostile environment for criminals and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to law enforcement agencies.
“The operational successes recorded during the month further demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the commitment of officers and men of the Command to ensuring the safety of all residents,” he said.
The police commissioner assured Lagosians that investigations into all cases would be diligently pursued and suspects prosecuted in accordance with the law.