Fear spread across parts of Lagos after police uncovered several shocking criminal operations linked to kidnapping, cultism, robbery, and fraud within the state.
However, the Lagos State Police Command says multiple coordinated operations carried out in May 2026 led to major breakthroughs against criminal gangs terrorising residents.
The development followed intelligence-led raids and tactical operations across several communities. Moreover, police operatives reportedly foiled a planned kidnap attempt targeting a businessman in the Ejigbo area of Lagos.
Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, disclosed the details during a press briefing on the Command’s operational achievements for May 2026.
According to him, the Command remained committed to proactive policing and rapid responses against criminal activities across Lagos State.
He revealed that 10 suspects were arrested during different operations carried out within the review period.
Furthermore, police recovered several dangerous weapons and exhibits linked to criminal activities.
Items recovered included three AK47 rifles, two SMGs, locally made pistols, magazines, live ammunition, vehicles, and other dangerous weapons.
CP Fatai explained that operatives acted on credible intelligence regarding a kidnapping syndicate targeting wealthy businessmen.
The operation reportedly took place around Jakande Estate Gate in Ejigbo on May 24, 2026.
According to the police commissioner, the gang allegedly travelled into Lagos to execute high-profile kidnappings.
He also disclosed that the gang leader, identified as Ifeanyi, also known as “Ifeko,” allegedly trained another notorious kidnap leader neutralised in Lagos in 2024.
“Operatives moved to the scene and the gang, on sighting the police, opened fire and engaged the operatives in a gun duel. The operatives responded with superior firepower, leading to the neutralisation of four members of the gang, while one suspect escaped with bullet wounds,” he said.
Meanwhile, an Inspector of Police reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and is currently receiving treatment.
Recovered from the scene were a Toyota Sienna vehicle, rifles, ammunition, and vehicle keys.
In another operation, police arrested a 57-year-old driver accused of stealing a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to his employer.
The suspect allegedly fled to Ibadan and changed the vehicle documents to avoid detection.
However, police tracked and arrested him after an intensive investigation.
The Command also arrested a suspected cult leader identified as Waliu Olaleye in the Igando area.
A locally made double-barrel pistol was recovered from the ceiling of his apartment.
Furthermore, police uncovered a self-arranged kidnapping plot involving a scrap iron dealer identified as Adamu Abdullahi.
Investigators reportedly discovered inconsistencies after a ransom demand video surfaced online.
The suspect later confessed that the kidnapping was staged alongside accomplices to extort money from his employer.
According to police, ₦490,000 linked to the fraud was recovered during the investigation.
Police arrested one Chibuzor Mogbo in Delta State after a 12-day intelligence operation.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to the offence and assisted investigators in recovering properties worth over ₦300 million.
Meanwhile, efforts remain ongoing to arrest another suspect still on the run.
Police further arrested suspected car vandals and recovered stolen vehicles across different locations in Lagos.
CP Fatai assured residents that intelligence-led policing and surveillance operations would continue across the state.
“The Command wishes to assure all Lagosians that there will be no hiding place for criminal elements within the state,” CP Fatai said.
