In a sweeping crackdown on violent crime, the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State has arrested 118 suspects linked to kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, and street violence in April 2026.
Police Commissioner Tijani Olayiwola Fatai said the operation, driven by intelligence and rapid response tactics, led to the recovery of several dangerous weapons, including locally made and imported pistols, dane guns, and other incriminating items. Officers also seized 21 bags of suspected Indian hemp, stolen telecom batteries, and weapons such as cutlasses and knives.
One of the most disturbing breakthroughs came in Ikorodu, where two suspects were arrested for the alleged kidnapping and murder of a 17-year-old boy. Investigators say the same suspects were also linked to an earlier abduction in 2025 in which ransom was paid before the victim was killed.
In another major operation, police raided criminal hideouts in the Lekki corridor, arresting 58 suspected street hoodlums accused of phone snatching, traffic robbery, and harassment of residents.
Cult-related violence also came under heavy police action, with multiple suspects arrested in raids across Iwaya, Lagos Island, Ajao Estate, and Festac. Authorities say some of those detained are linked to deadly rival cult clashes.
Meanwhile, efforts to dismantle illegal arms networks paid off as two suspected gun runners were caught attempting to sell a Beretta pistol, while several armed robbery suspects were arrested in separate incidents, including along Anthony Bridge.
Police also cracked down on telecom infrastructure vandalism, arresting three suspects accused of stealing critical power equipment following intelligence provided by a telecom operator.
The Command said investigations are ongoing to arrest fleeing suspects and recover more weapons, warning that there will be no safe haven for criminals in Lagos.
All suspects will be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations.
