Dare Babalola
The Oyo State Police Command has announced the arrest of three suspected criminals and the recovery of a locally fabricated firearm during an intelligence-driven stop-and-search operation carried out in Fiditi, Oyo State.
According to a Tuesday statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the operation was conducted in the early hours of Sunday, May 11, 2026.
The command confirmed that the suspects were apprehended along Old Oyo Road, near the American International School axis, when officers attached to the Restore Peace Unit intercepted a commercial bus for routine security checks.
During the search, tension reportedly rose when three passengers allegedly attempted to flee after officers began inspecting their luggage.
“The suspects suddenly took to their heels when attention shifted to their bags, prompting a swift pursuit by operatives who successfully apprehended them after a brief chase,” the police statement said.
A subsequent search of the abandoned luggage led to the discovery of a locally fabricated pistol concealed in a nylon bag, along with assorted charms suspected to have been used for ritual protection or criminal activities.
The suspects were identified as Kilani Abbas, 31, from Onaara-Amoloko; Toheed Adediwura, 38, from Kolobo area in Oyo; and Ibrahim Rafiu, 40, from Sanga area, Oyo State.
Police authorities confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue to determine the origin of the weapon, its intended purpose, and possible links to wider criminal networks.
“Preliminary investigations are ongoing to establish the source of the firearm and the extent of the suspects’ involvement in criminal activities within and outside the state,” the Command added.
The Command described the operation as a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and routine stop-and-search exercises in preventing crime before it occurs.
Oyo Police Commissioner, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbemiga, commended officers involved in the operation and praised the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for sustained operational support.
He urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence.
“We remain committed to safeguarding lives and property across Oyo State through proactive policing, visibility patrols, and sustained intelligence operations. Members of the public are encouraged to support us with useful information, which will be treated with strict confidentiality,” the Commissioner assured.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security across the state through sustained surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response operations.
