Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command attached to the Safer Highway Patrol have arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered a locally made pistol and a live cartridge during an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation.

The operation was conducted on September 25, 2026, at about 5:30 pm along the Ibadan-Ife Road by Ajia Junction.

According to a statement by the Command’s spokesman, Ayanlade Olayinka, operatives intercepted a white Mazda bus driven by Sanusi Afeez Adedamola, travelling from Ibadan towards Ondo State.

During a search of the vehicle, one of the passengers, identified as Emmanuel Kingsley Odoh, was arrested for allegedly being in unlawful possession of a locally made pistol and a live cartridge.

Olayinka said the firearm and ammunition were immediately secured as exhibits, while the suspect was taken into custody for further investigation.

He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Olugbenga, had directed that the case be transferred to the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) for discreet investigation, with a view to identifying and arresting other members of the alleged syndicate and prosecuting the suspect upon completion of the investigation.

The Command reassured commuters and residents along major highways of its commitment to their safety and security.

It said it would sustain proactive patrols, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations and other measures to prevent crime and maintain public safety across the state.

The Command also urged the public to remain vigilant and provide police with timely, actionable information. (The Nation)