The Lagos State Police Command have arrested a notorious gang leader, Jude Onouha, 46, and three accomplices who allegedly disguises as security personnel to infiltrate estates and vandalise exotic vehicles across the state.
Arrest and recovery of exhibits
The principal suspect was said to have led other gang members namely; Obina Okeke, 27, Emmanuel Anyanwu 38, and Joshua Oketere, 31 to Lekki area of Lagos State where they vandalise vehicles.
They were arrested in the early hours of Wednesday, around 4.00a.m by police personnel and were transferred to Ilasan Division.
The Lagos State Police Commissioner, AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh made this revelation during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Ikeja.
Confirming the development, the arrest of the 46-year-old man, identified as the kingpin of a gang that has been on the police wanted list for about four weeks is a major breakthrough says the police boss.
Gang disguised as security personnel
Speaking about their modus operandi, “Some of these vandals go in the guise of carrying what they have with them, which is a jack and go through some estates and present it as if it is a rifle.
Sequel to this arrest, the police boss said the command had last year made several arrests on vandals and they are currently being prosecuted.
The police detective of the Lagos State police had arrested these three suspects following public complaints, following which police team promptly moved him and arrested them.
According to the police boss, “During the interrogation, the suspect confirmed to be members of specialised vandals where they are the syndicate who operated by posing as security operatives, wearing fake uniforms and carrying a modified Mercedes Benz car jack designed to resemble a firearm.
The Police says the tactic enabled them to gain access into residential estates under the pretext of conducting official investigations.
Investigations revealed that the group targeted high-end vehicles, including Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650 Jeep, Mercedes Benz, and other SUVs.
The incident exposed how the gang specialised in removing vital and expensive components such as brain boxes, control devices, wiring systems, side mirrors, and tapping glasses.
The prime suspect reportedly confessed to the crimes and is currently assisting police detectives with ongoing investigations aimed at apprehending other members of the syndicate.
Meanwhile, recovered items from the suspect include a Mercedes Benz car jack used in the operation and a face cap bearing the inscription “Special Force,” which was used to reinforce the gang’s false identity.
The arrest marks a significant step in curbing the activities of criminal gangs targeting vehicles within Lagos metropolis
The Police noted that efforts are being intensified to track down fleeing accomplices and ensure they are brought to justice.
Police urge vigilance among residents
However, the CP has advised residents, estate managers, and security personnel to exercise heightened vigilance when dealing with individuals claiming to be security operatives.
He stressed the importance of proper verification, urging the public to liaise with Divisional Police Officers, DPOs, in their respective areas before granting access to any suspicious individuals.
The CP, reiterated the need for collaboration between residents and law enforcement, assuring that proactive measures will continue to enhance public safety.
He further encouraged the use of the Command’s emergency lines; 08063299264, 09053872208, and 08087332678 for prompt response.
