The Command said the operation was part of its sustained intelligence-led efforts to combat violent crimes and enhance public safety across the state.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the suspects were apprehended during an operation carried out in the early hours of June 12, 2026, at Gbeku Area, Olodo, Ibadan.
The police said operatives, acting on credible intelligence, stormed the residence of one Surajudeen Babatunde Adio, popularly known as “Surii Ilupeju,” where members of the suspected criminal syndicate were allegedly operating.
The suspects arrested were identified as Ahmed Nafiu, 43; Olukunmi Olaniyi, 36; Femi Odeyinde, 53; Jelili Akinade, 50; and Muhideen Adio, 27.
A search conducted at the premises led to the recovery of one pump-action gun, one cut-to-size single-barrel gun, eight live cartridges, a native bullet-proof vest, two bottles of suspected charm-induced syrup, and assorted charms, among other items.
The police said the suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue to determine the extent of their involvement in criminal activities and to track down other members of the syndicate who may still be at large.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, reiterated the Command’s commitment to tackling armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes.
He assured residents that intelligence-driven operations and targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts would continue until criminal elements operating within the state are brought to justice.
The police commissioner also appealed to members of the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information, assuring that all information received would be treated with strict confidentiality.
The Command maintained that collaboration between residents and security agencies remains crucial to sustaining ongoing efforts to improve security and safeguard lives and property across Oyo State.
