Police arrest three robbery suspects, recover stolen items in Osun
Osun State Police Arrest Three Suspected Armed Robbers
The Osun State Police Command has apprehended three individuals suspected of armed robbery and seized a variety of stolen items during coordinated operations across the state.
In a statement released Thursday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, outlined the recent arrests as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal activity within the region.
The suspects, identified as 43-year-old Akinwale Morufu, 40-year-old Banji Tope, and 30-year-old Banji Olumide, were detained following a response from officers at the Iragbiji Divisional Headquarters. This was triggered by intelligence reports concerning a suspicious black bag discovered in an uncompleted building in the community.
The recovered bag contained a locally-made cut-to-size pistol, a Tecno Android phone, a knife, a Moniepoint ATM card, a catapult, a padlock, and a voter’s card. Authorities subsequently traced the voter’s card to its owner, who admitted responsibility for the bag, pistol, and catapult, but denied ownership of the phone and ATM card.
Further investigation, aided by technical analysis, led police to the rightful owner of the phone, who confirmed that it had been stolen during a robbery at her home on April 4, 2026. The victim reported that armed intruders invaded her residence around 5:00 a.m., taking her phone, N89,000 in cash, and her ATM card at gunpoint.
Additionally, police responded to a distress call on April 19 regarding an armed robbery at a cooking gas shop in Isale Oyo, Iragbiji. The victim suffered gunshot wounds to both legs after one assailant demanded cash and fled with money and two iPhone 11 Pro Max devices, as well as a motorcycle.
Following up on intelligence, police operatives and local vigilantes apprehended Banji Tope in Ikirun and recovered the stolen motorcycle. Suspect Banji Olumide was also taken into custody.
The victim of the gas shop robbery is currently receiving medical treatment, and police are continuing their efforts to apprehend other members of the gang. Commissioner Gotan reiterated the Command’s dedication to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure peace and security throughout Osun State.
All apprehended suspects will face charges upon the conclusion of the investigation.
