The Lagos State Police Command said it has arrested one Jude Onouha, aged 46, a suspected kingpin and gang leader of a “vicious and notorious” criminal syndicate that allegedly specialises in disguising itself as security operatives in fake security outfit uniforms, to hijack luxury cars from unsuspecting victims.

A statement by Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, for the Commissioner of Police of the Command, noted that the suspect uses a Mercedes car jack modified to look like firearms, to gain access into estates within the Lagos metropolis.

“The suspect and his gang specialized in disguising themselves as security operatives, wearing fake uniforms and using a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack, crafted to resemble a firearm, to deceive unsuspecting estate security personnel.

“Under the false pretense of conducting security investigations, they gained access to several residential estates. Once inside, the gang targeted high-end vehicles such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650, Mercedes-Benz, and other SUVs, systematically vandalising them and removing vital and expensive components, including brainboxes, tapping glasses, wiring systems, side mirrors, and control devices.

“The kingpin arrested corroborated the crime, and he is assisting the police detectives in the further investigation of the case,” the statement read in part, adding that efforts are being intensified to arrest other members of the gang for investigation and prosecution.

Recovered from the suspect were a Mercedes-Benz car jack and a face cap with the inscription Special Force, which he used to disguise himself as a security operative.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang and their accomplices. The Command hereby wishes to advise residents, particularly estate management and security guards, to exercise vigilance and utmost caution whenever person(s) represent themselves as operatives of any security agency and seek to gain entrance into their estates.”

In addition to basic verification, the Command urged Lagos residents to collaborate closely with the Police by contacting the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) covering their area to confirm the authenticity of any such security personnel before granting them access into their estates.

“Where there is any doubt, such persons should immediately be referred to the nearest police division.”

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, enjoined residents and estate management to remain vigilant, collaborate closely with their respective DPOs, and make use of the Command’s emergency numbers: 08063299264, 09053872208, 08087332678, for quick intervention.

He assured that together, through vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting, the safety and security of all communities in Lagos State will be strengthened. (Channels TV)