By: Odeh Favour Adiya
Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command attached to the Violent Crime Response Unit have arrested two suspected members of a “one-chance” robbery syndicate operating within the Abeokuta metropolis.
The suspects, identified as 29-year-old Bidemi Tijani and 42-year-old Olajide Rasaq, were apprehended on August 15 following an intelligence-led operation.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the command received a tip-off that the suspects, who disguised themselves as commercial taxi operators, were spotted in a vehicle heading toward Ita-Oshin, Abeokuta.
“Acting promptly on the tip-off, tactical operatives of the VCRU gave the fleeing robbers a hot chase towards Ita-Oshin, successfully intercepting the vehicle and apprehending the two suspects,” the statement said.
Upon their arrest, police authorities subjected the duo to interrogation.
“Upon interrogation and putting down their statements under caution, both suspects confessed to being active members of the ‘One Chance’ robbery syndicate terrorizing commuters within the Abeokuta metropolis,” DSP Babaseyi stated.
The police command noted that manhunt efforts have been intensified to trail other fleeing members of the gang.
“Efforts are currently being intensified by operatives to track down and apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, establish the full extent of their activities, and recover necessary exhibits,” the statement added.
Reacting to the arrest, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the VCRU operatives for their swift response, operational vigilance, and tactical professionalism.
CP Ojajuni reiterated the commitment of the command to eradicating criminal activities across the state, warning that perpetrators of crime will find no safe haven in Ogun State.
He further urged residents and commuters to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the police via Gateway Shield on 0800 000 9111, or the emergency lines 09164859299 and 09154293464.
