*Principal accomplice flees hotel room as operatives close in
By Florencemary Nwabueze
Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 22-year-old man, Olamide Suleiman, during a routine stop-and-search operation along Adetola road in the Aguda area, leading to the recovery of firearms and a substantial quantity of substances suspected to be cannabis.
According to a statement signed by the commands public relations officer SP Abimbola Adebisi on Wednesday, the suspect was intercepted by police officers conducting standard patrol operations in the area. A preliminary search of Suleiman uncovered dried leaves believed to be Indian hemp. Further examination of his bag revealed a locally fabricated pistol loaded with one live cartridge.
During interrogation, Suleiman allegedly confessed that the recovered pistol belonged to an individual known only as "Emir," who was reportedly lodging at a hotel in Aguda. Acting on the intelligence, police operatives proceeded to the hotel where they conducted a search of the room allegedly occupied by the principal suspect.
The search resulted in the recovery of one double-barrel gun. However, the primary suspect had fled the premises before the arrival of law enforcement officials.
The police assured that an investigation is currently underway, with effort being intensified to apprehend the fugitive and other members of the criminal network.
Reacting to the incident, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani, commended the vigilance of the operatives involved in the operation and reiterated the Command's determination to eliminate criminal elements from Lagos State.
"The Lagos State Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We urge members of the public to continue supporting our efforts by providing timely and credible information to aid crime prevention and detection." CP Tijani stated
The command further encourages residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command's emergency lines.