Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspected armed robbers and recovered toy pistols and illicit drugs during a security operation in Ibadan, following credible intelligence from members of the public.
A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the operation was carried out after reports of criminal activities along Elebu-Oja, off Alao-Akala Expressway.
He said the operatives of the Anti-Counterfeiting and Fraud Unit, who were acting on credible information, were deployed to the area on surveillance patrol to apprehend the suspects and forestall further attacks.
According to him, uring the operation, the police arrested two suspects identified as Elijah Teejay, 21, and Ottu Emmanuel, 33. A search conducted on them led to the recovery of two toy pistols and some illicit drugs, which were taken into custody as exhibits for investigation.
Peliminary interrogation revealed that the suspects confessed to several robbery incidents along the same axis and in other parts of Oyo State and beyond.
The police spokesperson said the duo allegedly operated across state lines, dispossessing residents of their belongings and spreading fear within affected communities.
The Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, has directed that the suspects be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
He also commended residents for their vigilance and timely information, noting that public cooperation played a key role in the success of the operation.
CP Haruna, further, expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his support and commitment to intelligence-driven policing nationwide.
He urged residents to remain security conscious and continue reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.
The police boss reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property in Oyo State, assuring the public that criminal elements would not be allowed to operate freely.
For emergencies, residents are advised to contact the Oyo State Call Response Center on 615, or the Control Room lines: 08081768614 and 07055495413.