Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested three suspected criminals accused of impersonating security personnel to gain access to residential estates and vandalise vehicles across the state.
The suspects, Obinna Okeke (27), Emmanuel Anyanwu (38) and Joshua Nkemdirim (31), were apprehended in the early hours of Tuesday during a coordinated operation by police detectives.
In a statement on Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh, said the gang specialised in disguising themselves in fake security uniforms and using imitation firearms to deceive estate residents and on-duty guards.
According to the statement, the suspects reportedly employed a modified Mercedes car jack fashioned to resemble a firearm to intimidate residents and gain entry into estates.
“This gang has used this ruse to enter estates and vandalise vehicles including Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650, Mercedes-Benz SUVs, and other high-end cars,” the statement said.
The police added that the gang focused on removing car brain boxes, wiring, side mirrors, control devices, and other expensive components.
The arrested suspects have confessed to the crimes and are cooperating with detectives in ongoing investigations.
Recovered items include stolen vehicle brain boxes and the modified car jack used to simulate a firearm.
The police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend additional members of the syndicate.
CP Jimoh warned estate managers and residents to remain vigilant, especially when individuals claiming to be security personnel request access to gated communities.
He advised verifying identities through the Divisional Police Officer before granting entry and urged that suspicious persons be reported immediately to the nearest police station.
He also encouraged residents to make use of the command’s emergency lines for rapid response.
The police reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property throughout Lagos State.