The Lagos State Police Command recently arrested two dismissed soldiers, Akeem Suleiman and Abdulau Mohammed, along with two civilian accomplices, for their involvement in a robbery gang. The suspects were paraded alongside other criminals after their apprehension. They allegedly conducted their operations wearing military headgear, and police recovered such gear, uniforms, and identity cards from them during the arrest, as reported by Punch.
SP Benjamin Hudenyin, the command spokesman, disclosed at a press briefing in Ikeja that a tactical team based in Surulere successfully apprehended the gang, known for snatching vehicles at gunpoint from motorists in Lagos. Hudenyin noted that the gang had been active for some time, and the two dismissed soldiers had been discharged in 2014 and 2017 respectively. They committed their crimes while dressed in full military attire.
In a confession, Akeem Suleiman admitted to starting his involvement in robberies in April 2024, explaining their method of operation. He stated they targeted any parked vehicle with open windows, forcefully removing occupants and driving off. Their operations centered around the Ajah area of Lagos, utilizing a locally sourced firearm, although he emphasized they had not harmed any victims.
“I started robbery in April 2024. Anytime we steal a car, I drive it to the receiver’s place. We steal cars randomly. If we see anyone parked and wound down, we drag them out and zoom off in the car. We operate in the Ajah area of Lagos, with a local gun. But we never killed our victims,” Akeem Suleiman disclosed.
SP Hudenyin assured that the suspects would face charges in court for their crimes.