Operatives of Lagos State Police Command got a major breakthrough on Friday, September 19, at about 2p.m., when they successfully arrested a 28-year-old suspect, John Samuel, said to be a notorious armed robber, hired assassin, and murderer who had been terrorising the state residents.
Thenewsbearer learnt that the Akwa Ibom State-born suspect was apprehended in his hideout at Epe.
According to information gathered, the notorious armed robber who was recently released from prison, shot and wounded a businessman, Gbenga Obama, and robbed him of an expensive gold necklace and other valuables in broad daylight at Gbajobi Street, Allen Avenue, Ikeja, on Thursday, September 18.
Confirming this in a statement, the Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, described Samuel, who is an ex-convict, as “vicious and notorious for armed robbery, assassination, and murder of some of his victims.
“He (Samuel) was released recently after serving a six-year jail term for capital offence of armed robbery. After his release from prison, he returned to crime and criminality with even more viciousness.
“He is notorious for shooting at victims before dispossessing them of their valuables.”
DSP Oluseyi disclosed that the Close Circuit Television (CCTV) footage of the September 18 incident, obtained by the police, clearly captured the suspect when he fired at the victim with English pistol before he dispossessed him of his gold necklace jewelry while his accomplice waited on a motorcycle for their escape.
The victim, who sustained serious gunshot wounds during the attack, had since been treated and discharged, Oluseyi said.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to selling the stolen jewelry for ₦4 million, far below its actual value.
“The Lagos State Police Command is currently intensifying efforts to arrest other members of his gang and bring them to justice.
“They will all be prosecuted on completion of investigation,” the deputy spokesperson added.
Commending the operatives for their gallantry and commitment that led to the successful arrest of the suspect, the Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Olohundare Jimoh assured Lagosians that discreet investigation into the case is ongoing.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to safety and protection of all residents, urging them to go about their lawful activities in peace without fear or apprehension.
The police boss also warned all criminally-minded persons, saying that Lagos has no hiding place for them.
