Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a 29-year-old man, Temitope Ikumuniwon, over alleged involvement in armed robbery, recovering a locally made pistol, a live cartridge and a battle axe during the operation.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday, saying the suspect was apprehended by officers attached to the Igbotako Division during a routine surveillance exercise.
According to the statement, the operation took place at about 7 a.m. on June 17, 2026, at Omotosho Motor Park along the Lagos/Ore Expressway in Igbotako, Odigbo Local Government Area.
Jimoh said the suspect drew the attention of security operatives after exhibiting suspicious behaviour while attempting to board a commercial vehicle heading to Iju-Oke.
He explained that a search conducted on the suspect’s cross-body bag led to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol, one live cartridge and a battle axe.
“The suspect was immediately arrested, while the recovered exhibits were secured as evidence. Preliminary investigation is ongoing to determine the source of the firearm, the intended use of the weapons and his possible involvement in armed robbery and other criminal activities,” the statement read.
The police spokesperson added that efforts were underway to identify and apprehend other suspected members of the criminal network, noting that the case would be transferred to the appropriate investigative unit for further investigation before prosecution.
Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
He also appreciated the support of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria in the fight against crime and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information that would assist security agencies in tackling criminal activities.