By ALÓRE TV News
Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 22-year-old suspect, Olamide Suleiman, during a routine stop-and-search operation in the Aguda area of Lagos, recovering a firearm, a live cartridge and substances suspected to be Indian hemp, while launching a manhunt for an alleged accomplice who escaped arrest.
The arrest was made along Adetola Road, Aguda, where police officers conducting a routine security operation intercepted the suspect for questioning. A search conducted on him led to the recovery of dry leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
Further examination of the suspect's bag reportedly uncovered a locally made pistol loaded with one live cartridge, prompting investigators to intensify their inquiries.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, the suspect allegedly confessed during interrogation that the recovered firearm belonged to one Emir, who was reportedly staying at a hotel in the Aguda area.
Acting on the information, police detectives immediately stormed the hotel and carried out a search of the room allegedly occupied by the said Emir. During the operation, officers recovered a double-barrel gun. However, the principal suspect reportedly fled before the arrival of the police, escaping arrest.
The Command said investigations are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect and dismantle the criminal gang linked to the recovered weapons.
Reacting to the breakthrough, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, commended the vigilance and professionalism of the operatives whose swift action led to the recovery of the firearms.
He reiterated the Command's commitment to ridding Lagos State of criminal elements and ensuring the safety of residents through intelligence-driven policing and proactive operations.
The Police Commissioner also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information that could help prevent crime and facilitate the arrest of criminal suspects.
Residents were encouraged to promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities to the nearest police station or through the Lagos State Police Command's emergency lines as the investigation continues.
