The Lagos State Police Command has reported the apprehension of six persons, including two former soldiers, for their alleged involvement in armed robbery and car theft.

SP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the command, disclosed that the arrests followed extensive investigations conducted by the robbery tactical team based in Surulere. 

The dismissed soldiers were identified as part of a criminal gang known for violently seizing vehicles from motorists across Lagos and subsequently selling them within the state. 

The arrests, spanning a month, led to the capture of three suspects within Lagos State and one in Ilorin, along with the recovery of two stolen vehicles.

“They have been operating quite a while before their arrest. They are four in number, two are dismissed soldiers. One was dismissed in 2014, and the other in 2017.

They carried out their crime wearing full military uniform. Our investigation so far revealed that the gang has snatched a total of 13 cars, two have been recovered. We also recovered the military uniform and military Identity cards with various ranks, including lieutenant colonel,” he said.

Hundeyin said another suspect, a driver, was also arrested for allegedly stealing his boss’ car the day he was employed.

He said the suspect went to the church the following Sunday with the stolen car for dedication and thanksgiving before his arrest.

The spokesperson, however, blamed his employer for not carrying out a due diligence investigation before securing the driver’s service.

The image maker said the sixth suspect, who claimed to be an automobile mechanic, was arrested for allegedly stealing and selling off cars given to him for repairs.

Hundeyin said the buyer of the stolen cars from the mechanic was also arrested.

He said the mechanic claimed he told the buyer that he brought the cars from Cotonou, Benin Republic.

The spokesperson said all the suspects would be charged to court upon completing the investigation, adding that operatives were on the train of other cars stolen for recovery.