The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three suspected armed robbers and recovered three stolen vehicles alongside a fabricated pistol in a series of intelligence-led operations carried out by the Anti-Robbery Squad.

The suspects, Hammed Olarewaju, Adedokun Ayinde, and Adedokun Adewusi, were arrested following coordinated investigations into reported cases of vehicle theft across Ogun State and neighbouring states.

According to a statement on the command’s X handle on Friday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the breakthrough began when detectives intercepted Hammed Olarewaju, who was found in possession of a suspicious vehicle plate number.

“His arrest led to further investigation and the apprehension of Adedokun Ayinde, identified as the alleged leader of a robbery syndicate operating within the state.

“During the operation, officers recovered a Toyota Sienna earlier reported stolen, as well as a fabricated pistol believed to have been used in the commission of armed robbery,” Babaseyi added.

In a related development, a Toyota Corolla stolen from Ilaro was traced and recovered in Ibadan, Oyo State, where it was found in the possession of one Arowolo Taoreed.

Similarly, Adedokun Adewusi was arrested in connection with another armed robbery case.

Investigations linked him to a stolen 2017 Lexus RX 350 F-Sport vehicle traced to Abuja. A second pistol was also recovered in Ajah, Lagos State, and is believed to be connected to the same criminal network.

Preliminary findings suggest that the suspects are part of a coordinated syndicate responsible for vehicle theft and armed robbery operations across Ogun and adjoining states.

The state Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response.

He said, “This operation reflects the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and the fight against violent crime. We will continue to ensure that criminal elements have no safe haven in Ogun State.”

He also assured residents that efforts were ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the syndicate and recover additional stolen vehicles.

Babaseyi urged members of the public to remain vigilant and assist security agencies with timely information.

“The cooperation of residents remains critical in our fight against crime. We encourage the public to report suspicious movements through our emergency lines,” he said. (PUNCH)