Lagos Police Arrest Dismissed Soldiers and Four Others in Armed Robbery and Car Theft Ring

 Lagos police operatives have arrested two dismissed soldiers and four others allegedly involved in a notorious armed robbery and car theft gang. The suspects were paraded along with the recovered exhibits before journalists by Lagos police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin on Tuesday.

Hundeyin revealed that the two dismissed soldiers were part of a gang specializing in snatching vehicles at gunpoint across various parts of the state, later selling the stolen vehicles within Lagos. The soldiers executed their crimes while wearing full military uniforms and had stolen at least 13 vehicles before their apprehension.

"They carried out their crimes wearing full military uniform. Our investigation so far revealed that the gang has snatched a total of 13 cars, two of which have been recovered. We also recovered military uniforms and identity cards with various ranks, including Lieutenant Colonel," Hundeyin stated.

The suspects were arrested by the Command's tactical team based in Surulere following a month-long investigation. Three suspects were apprehended in Lagos State, one in Ilorin, and two stolen vehicles were recovered.

Hundeyin added, "They have been operating for quite a while before their arrest. They are four in number, two of whom are dismissed soldiers. One was dismissed in 2014 and the other in 2017."

Additionally, another suspect employed as a driver was arrested for allegedly stealing his employer's car on the day he was hired. The suspect took the stolen car to church for dedication and thanksgiving the following Sunday before being arrested.

Hundeyin criticized the employer for not conducting a thorough background check before hiring the driver.

The sixth suspect, claiming to be an automobile mechanic, was arrested for allegedly stealing and selling cars entrusted to him for repairs. The buyer of the stolen cars was also apprehended. The mechanic claimed he informed the buyer that the cars were brought from Cotonou, Benin Republic.

Hundeyin confirmed that all suspects would be charged to court upon completion of the investigation, and operatives are working to recover other stolen cars.