The Lagos State Police Command has successfully busted a car-snatching syndicate operating across Lagos, Oyo, and Edo States, recovering five stolen vehicles and dangerous firearms in the process. The suspects were arrested at their hideout in the Igando area of Lagos, where they allegedly planned and executed multiple robbery operations.

Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, while parading the suspects on Friday, described the operation as a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to tackle violent crime. According to him, the gang’s method involved pretending to be passengers, only to rob unsuspecting motorists mid-transit and make away with their cars.

Fayoade advised motorists—especially professionals and civil servants—against giving rides to strangers in exchange for fuel money, warning that such acts could be dangerous. “If you cannot afford fuel, park your car until you can. Many victims fall prey because they pick up unknown passengers,” he cautioned.

The police boss revealed that the investigation into a single car theft incident in the Lekki-Ajah axis led detectives to uncover the entire gang’s operations. Items recovered from the suspects included a pump-action rifle, an English-made pistol with erased serial numbers, live cartridges, and charms believed to provide protection during their attacks.

Reassuring Lagos residents, Fayoade maintained that the command remains committed to ensuring the state’s safety. “Lagos remains safe. We are on top of our game in crime prevention and detection,” he stated. He also urged the public to report any suspicious individuals or activities within their communities, stressing that criminals “live among us” and can be easily exposed through vigilance.