A significant breakthrough occurred on the infamous Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway as law enforcement apprehended the leader of a notorious criminal gang, Tochukwu Nonso, alias 'Thug Life'. Tochukwu, in an exclusive interview with Vanguard, divulged the inner workings of his gang, admitting to his personal involvement in over 100 robberies on the bridge over the past two years.
Operating primarily after 7 pm, when the police Rapid Response Squad (RRS) withdrew from the area, the gang preyed on stranded motorists, brandishing cutlasses to coerce and pilfer valuables, particularly phones and cash.
Reflecting on his background, Tochukwu revealed that he was introduced to criminal activities by acquaintances who initially masked the true nature of their operations. Although firearms were not employed, the gang's violent modus operandi was evident in the injuries sustained during their assaults.
Tochukwu, famously known as 'Thug Life', delineated his role as the gang's leader, elucidating how proceeds from their illicit activities were divided, with him claiming the lion's share. His account shed light on the grim reality of criminality on Otedola Bridge, notorious for accidents and violent attacks.
The pivotal moment transpired during a robbery attempt beneath the bridge one fateful night when Tochukwu and his accomplices targeted a group of stranded individuals, including an undercover policewoman. The ensuing altercation resulted in injuries but culminated in the gang's apprehension while they were unwinding at a hotel.
Describing his arrest, Tochukwu recounted, "While at the shrine, we called our buyer at the Computer village who came and gave us N30,000.00. We later moved to Akute where we normally hide in hotels. We were enjoying ourselves in the hotel when policemen arrested us."