The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old man, Joseph Kehinde, alongside his 13-year-old son over alleged unlawful possession of a firearm during a routine security operation along the Sagamu–Ogijo Road corridor.
The arrest, which took place around 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, has heightened concerns over the involvement of minors in criminal activities and the circulation of illegal arms in the state.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babasiyi, operatives of the Command’s Quick Response Squad intercepted the teenager during a stop-and-search exercise at the Lafarge area.
The police disclosed that the boy was riding in a tricycle when he was flagged down for a routine check.
A subsequent search reportedly led to the discovery of a locally fabricated pistol, a live cartridge and a face mask in his possession.
Babasiyi said the minor could not provide a satisfactory explanation for the items but later claimed that the weapon belonged to his father.
Acting on the disclosure, operatives launched a follow-up operation which resulted in the arrest of the father, Joseph Kehinde.
“The suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm,” the statement read.
The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the officers for their vigilance, reiterating the Command’s firm stance against illegal arms possession.
He urged residents to support security agencies with credible information, stressing that the police would not relent in efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
The Command added that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.