Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested an armed robbery suspect and recovered several dangerous weapons following a violent attack on a farming community in Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
Police spokesman, DSP Ayandele Olayinka Olushola, who confirmed the arrest in a statement yesterday, said the operation followed a report by one Mr. Kenneth Ossia, who received a distress call from the Chairman of Sete Camp that armed men had invaded the community.
According to the police, the assailants, who wielded various dangerous weapons, terrorised residents before carting away 10 bags of 500kg cocoa beans, five 30-litre kegs of palm oil, and ₦850,000 cash.
The statement said police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene, leading to the arrest of one of the suspects, identified as Muhammed Birisiyu, while four others escaped into the bush.
Items recovered from the suspect include one single-barrel gun with an expended cartridge, one battle axe, two daggers, three cutlasses, and a police belt believed to have been used during the robbery.
During interrogation, Birisiyu confessed to the crime and is reportedly assisting police investigators in tracking down his fleeing accomplices.
Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, commended the officers for their swift response, noting that their professionalism reflects the Command’s renewed focus on proactive policing.
He assured that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang and recover the stolen items, stressing that criminals and their sponsors would find no safe haven in the state.
The CP also appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continued operational support and guidance, which he said has strengthened police capacity across the country.
He urged residents, particularly those in rural and farming areas, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to the nearest police station, adding that effective policing relies on public cooperation.