OSOGBO, NIGERIA — The Osun State Police Command has arrested five suspects allegedly involved in a string of violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, car theft, cultism, and murder.
According to a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the suspects were apprehended during a series of targeted operations based on actionable intelligence. A variety of stolen items were recovered, including two vehicles, firearms, phones, documents, and furniture.
Arrested Suspects and Seized Items:
The following individuals were identified as suspects:
Michael Ojo, 27
Dotun Olumide, 34
Adeboye Damilare Blessing, 23
Taiwo Awoniran, 28
Onah David, 29
Recovered items include:
A black Lexus Jeep (Plate: GGE 197 JJ)
A silver Toyota Camry (Plate: BDG 684 HW)
A 3½ bed frame and mattress
Four locally made single-barrel guns
One cut-to-size double-barrel gun
Two Nokia C32 smartphones
Miscellaneous documents
Breakdown of Criminal Cases:
Kidnapping and Double Murder in Ondo State
On July 11, 2025, operatives of the Anti-Cultism Squad arrested Michael Ojo in Ilesa with the stolen black Lexus Jeep and incriminating documents. Investigators later uncovered that Ojo led a gang to Akungba, Ondo State on June 20, where they kidnapped and murdered two victims—Mr. Abah John Friday and Ms. Okah Andrel—before fleeing with their belongings, including the vehicle and iPhones.
Theft by Former Security Guard
On July 10, officers intercepted a suspicious Toyota Camry. The driver, Dotun Olumide, attempted to escape but was apprehended. He confessed to stealing the car, a bed frame, and mattress from Poget Care Homes Foundation in Badagry, Lagos, where he worked as a security guard. The organization confirmed the theft.
Attempted Robbery with Firearm
Adeboye Damilare was arrested on June 22 after attempting to rob a boutique in Ile-Ife. Armed with a locally made pistol, he fired a shot but failed to harm the victim, who raised an alarm. During interrogation, Damilare admitted to buying the firearm for ₦60,000 from Taiwo Awoniran, who was arrested on June 27. Three additional firearms were found in Awoniran’s possession.
Phone Theft and Illegal Firearm Possession
On April 25, a woman reported her Nokia C32 was stolen while charging at a friend’s home. Police tracked it down to Onah David, arrested on July 12. He was also found with a cut-to-size double-barrel gun.
Police Commendation and Call for Vigilance
Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, praised the Command’s coordinated response and urged residents to remain vigilant.
“We commend the officers for their professionalism and dedication. The public’s cooperation is key to sustaining safety in Osun,” said CP Gotan.
The suspects remain in police custody and will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded, DSP Ojelabi confirmed.
