The Oyo State Police Command has announced the arrest of two suspected armed robbers and the recovery of several vehicles during an intelligence-led operation within the Ibadan metropolis.

The suspects, identified as David Okhaie, 48, and Balogun Afolabi, 43, are both dismissed corporals of the Nigerian Army who, according to police, had been operating as part of a criminal gang specialising in vehicle snatching at gunpoint.

Their arrest followed what the command described as “credible intelligence and an intense manhunt” coordinated by operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit.

The statement announcing the arrests was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade.

He disclosed that Okhaie, a resident of the Ojoo area of Ibadan, allegedly paraded himself as an Army Captain despite having been dismissed from service.

Afolabi, who resides in the Wakajaiye area of the city, was also dismissed from the army.

Investigations revealed that the suspects targeted unsuspecting members of the public, dispossessing them of their vehicles and causing fear and disruption across parts of the state.

A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several exhibits believed to be proceeds of crime.

These include a black Toyota Camry with registration number KRD 253 KC, a metallic Toyota Corolla with registration number JTA 938 AA, a silver Lexus RX 350 without registration, and a black Super Cargo motorcycle with registration number YRE 487 VD.

The police command also called on members of the public who may have lost vehicles to armed robbery or theft to come forward for identification and possible recovery.

Owners whose vehicle descriptions match those recovered have been advised to report to the Oyo State Police Command, presenting valid proof of ownership and identification for verification.

According to the police, both suspects have confessed to the crimes and are currently assisting investigators with useful information aimed at tracking down other members of the syndicate and recovering additional stolen property. Further investigations are ongoing.

Commending the success of the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Femi Haruna, praised the officers of the Command Monitoring Unit for their professionalism and gallantry.

He also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his leadership and emphasis on intelligence-driven policing.

The police command reiterated its commitment to combating violent crime and safeguarding lives and property across the state.

It urged residents to continue to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid crime prevention and detection.