LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 44-year-old man described as a notorious cult leader and hired assassin, believed to be behind a spate of violent crimes in Mushin and other parts of the state spanning more than a decade.
The suspect, whose name was not disclosed by authorities, was apprehended during a targeted operation in Agbado, Ogun State, after evading arrest for years.
Confirming the arrest on Friday, June 20, 2025, the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the arrest was part of a coordinated operation codenamed “Silence, Speed and Surprise.”
“Today, operatives of the Tactical Squad, during a special operation, successfully trailed and arrested the notorious suspect,” Hundeyin said.
“He had been operating alongside multiple gangs and hoodlums, causing chaos across Mushin and surrounding areas for years.”
According to police, the suspect has been on the state’s most-wanted list and was allegedly responsible for multiple heinous crimes, including armed robberies, contract killings, cult-related violence, kidnappings, and cold-blooded murders, primarily in Mushin between 2009 and 2024.
“His criminal reign spread fear among residents and posed a significant threat to peace and order in Mushin and other parts of Lagos,” Hundeyin added.
Despite his history of fleeing across state lines to avoid capture, the police said they maintained consistent efforts over the years to bring him to justice.
Four families have reportedly identified the suspect as responsible for the deaths of their relatives.
A subsequent raid on his Mushin residence led to the recovery of a cache of weapons and incriminating materials.
Items recovered include:
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Two AK-47 rifles
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One K2 rifle
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One Red Ryder rifle
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Three pump-action shotguns
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Two locally made pistols
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Five magazines
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57 live cartridges
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70 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition
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27 rounds of 9mm ammunition
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One expended 5.56mm shell
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A dagger
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Three walkie-talkies
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Nine international passports belonging to different individuals
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh Moshood, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to expand the investigation and arrest other accomplices believed to be linked to the suspect’s network.
“The suspect remains in custody under tight security and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” CP Jimoh said.
He praised the Tactical Squad for their professionalism and bravery, and called on residents to assist security efforts by reporting suspicious activity.
“The Command remains committed to making Lagos unsafe for criminals while protecting residents and visitors,” Jimoh said, urging citizens to remain vigilant and await the full outcome of the ongoing investigation.
