Detectives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested five suspected members of a car-snatching syndicate, along with the alleged buyer of a stolen Toyota Corolla sold for ₦500,000.
According to police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the suspects, identified as Favour Sunday (25), Ikot Moses (28), Dickson Ighobue Harrison (35), Joshua Adedamola (27) and Daniel Jonathan (26), were apprehended following an intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of Ilasan Division.
The arrest stemmed from a robbery incident reported on August 1, 2025, by a taxi driver, who alleged that three men he picked up along Platinum Way, Jakande, Lekki, ordered his services but turned on him mid-trip.
One of the assailants allegedly brandished a locally made pistol, forced him out of his black Toyota Corolla, and fled with his vehicle.
Investigations revealed that the car had been sold for ₦500,000 to one Wasiu Arinola (40), who police said dismantled the vehicle and resold the parts separately. Arinola was subsequently arrested in Ibadan.
The Police Command noted that efforts are ongoing to recover the pistol used in the robbery, trace other stolen vehicles linked to the gang, and ensure the suspects face prosecution.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, assured residents that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, while calling on members of the public to continue providing timely information that can assist security agencies.
