Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a notorious gunrunner operating in five states across the country, as well as three other suspects.

The gunrunner, who also fabricates local arms, is alleged to be responsible for manufacturing and supplying firearms to criminal networks in Osun, Kogi, Edo, and Kwara States.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Olayinka Ayanlade, the suspect, who had long been on the Command’s watchlist, was nabbed following the arrest of three suspected armed robbers involved in the attack on a female motorcycle owner.

Ayanlade disclosed that the suspects dispossessed the victim of her TVS motorcycle in Irele, headquarters of the Irele Local Council Area of the state, during which they robbed her of the sum of N250,000 and other valuables, and also shot her in her right leg.

While stating that the suspects have been arraigned in court on charges bordering on armed robbery and attempted murder, the police image maker maintained that efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the syndicate and ensure that all collaborators are brought to justice.

He said, “Operatives of the Command arrested one of the suspects in Irele before tracking and apprehending two others at a hotel in Ore, thereby setting the stage for a wider investigation.

“Building on these initial arrests, the Command intensified its efforts and, in the course of investigation, recorded a landmark success with the arrest of a notorious gunrunner and local arms fabricator who had long been on the Command’s watchlist.

“This individual, responsible for manufacturing and supplying firearms to criminal networks, has been confirmed to operate not only within Ondo State but also across state lines, extending his illegal dealings to Osun, Kogi, Edo, and Kwara States.

“The arrest of this key figure marks a major step forward in dismantling the chain of supply that has fuelled violent crimes such as armed robbery and other unlawful activities across the region.

“There will be no hiding place for criminals in Ondo State. We shall continue to pursue them, dismantle their networks, and ensure that peace and security prevail across every community.”