The Lagos State Police Command has arrested an ex-convict and two other suspects for various theft and pickpocketing offences across different parts of the state.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the suspects — Segun Kolawole (25), Sodiq Isa (27), and Adekanmbi Ganiu (21) — were apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) during separate operations.
Kolawole, an ex-convict who was released from the Kirikiri Correctional Centre just five days earlier, was arrested around 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Oshodi Market after operatives observed his suspicious movements.
He was found with ₦80,000 and an Infinix Note 40 Pro smartphone, both traced to a burglary he had allegedly committed at Opebi, where he reportedly stole ₦200,000 and the phone from a sleeping trader. Police investigations revealed that he had already spent part of the stolen money on new clothes and shoes, which were recovered from him.
In a separate incident, RRS operatives arrested two suspected pickpockets, Sodiq Isa and Adekanmbi Ganiu, at about 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025, while attempting to steal mobile phones from unsuspecting commuters in different areas of Lagos.
Preliminary investigations showed that the duo specialized in snatching phones and wallets from pedestrians and passengers, particularly during rush hours and in congested traffic areas. Their swift arrest, police said, prevented further thefts, and the recovered items have been returned to their rightful owners.
All three suspects are currently in custody at the RRS Headquarters and will be charged in court upon the completion of investigations.
Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Jimoh, commended the RRS operatives for their professionalism and quick response. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and sustained enforcement against criminal activities to ensure the safety of Lagos residents.