The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three men who allegedly specialise in motorcycle theft in the Owode-Egba area of Obafemi-Owode Local Council. The suspects, identified as Adegboyega Sarafa (42), Soliu Bankole (38), and Sogo Idris, also known as Agbara (46), are accused of conspiracy and armed robbery.

In a statement, the police warned the public to be more vigilant regarding the activities of commercial motorcyclists and owners to avoid falling victim to armed robbery and potential harm.

The command emphasised the importance of caution following a significant breakthrough by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Owode-Egba, who led a team of officers to dismantle the notorious gang.

According to the command, the suspects were arrested on October 14, 2024, after a tip-off from a concerned resident. This led to the apprehension of the three men, who were accused of attacking one Rotimi Bajela on October 11, 2024.

The 60-year-old Bajela was travelling from Ajura Township towards Ijemon Kukoyi Village on his Bajaj Boxer motorcycle when the gang ambushed him. The command’s spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, explained, “As he travelled along the Ajura/Olojo/Shiun road, three men emerged from the bush and assaulted him with a gun and machete. They shot him, but when the gun failed to injure or kill him, they resorted to hitting him with the machete on his head and neck. They then robbed him of his motorcycle, money, and an Itel mobile phone.”

Bajela, who is currently recovering in hospital, informed the police that he recognised his attackers and could positively identify them. Following his statement, the police apprehended the suspects and recovered the locally-made gun and machete used in the attack.

SP Odutola confirmed that the suspects are currently under interrogation, and the crime scene in Olojo Village has been examined.