The Ogun State Police Command says its operatives have arrested 16 suspects at different locations across the state for offences bordering on suspected illegal petroleum product dealings, vandalism of critical national infrastructure, burglary, housebreaking, theft, receiving stolen property and defilement.

The Command also said it recovered two vehicles, one stolen motorcycle, four drums of suspected Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 13 25-litre jerry cans containing suspected diesel, one pumping machine, one generator and several other exhibits.

It said the recoveries highlight the sustained success of Operation KOSAYE in combating crime, protecting critical national assets, and safeguarding lives and property across the state.

The disclosure was contained in a statement issued in Abeokuta by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola.

According to the statement, on July 21, operatives of the Command’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit acted on credible intelligence regarding the activities of a suspected diesel bunkering syndicate.

The operation, carried out at Abule-Iroko in Sango, led to the arrest of a 51-year-old suspect.

Items recovered during the operation included four drums of suspected Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 13 25-litre jerry cans containing suspected diesel, one pumping machine and one generator allegedly used in the illegal operation.

Police said investigations have commenced to apprehend other members of the syndicate and unravel the network behind the alleged illegal activities.

The Command also said intelligence gathering and information provided by members of the public led detectives attached to the Ota Division to two suspects allegedly vandalising a telecommunications mast cable at Ten Ten Street in Ota.

The suspects, aged 26 and 28, were arrested at the scene.

According to the command, following a thorough investigation, the suspects were charged to court for the alleged offence.

The force reiterated its commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure and warned that anyone found engaging in acts of vandalism would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Other Operations

In another incident, the police said operatives of the Agbado Division arrested a 50-year-old man for the alleged defilement of an 11-year-old girl.

The victim was immediately taken for medical examination and treatment, while the suspect was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, for discreet investigation and prosecution.

The Command also announced the recovery of a mini truck conveying aluminium doors and window frames that had been hijacked by suspected armed hoodlums along the Benin/Ore Expressway.

According to the Force, the hoodlums abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby forest on sighting the police.

The truck was recovered and released to its owner, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the officers involved in the successful operations for their professionalism, vigilance, and response.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting the police by providing timely and credible information capable of preventing crime and facilitating prompt operational response. (Channels TV)

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