The Lagos State Police Command has recovered 36 exotic vehicles and over 82 firearms in recent operations aimed at curbing crime across the state, according to the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Olorundare Jimoh.

Addressing journalists at a press briefing held in Lagos, CP Jimoh detailed the command’s recent achievements in crime prevention, detection, and control, highlighting the implementation of new security strategies since he assumed office.

According to the Commissioner, the recovered vehicles—some of which were stolen from other states and nearly trafficked out of the country through Lagos—were retrieved through coordinated intelligence-led operations. “These 36 vehicles, valued at hundreds of millions of naira, were recovered from fraudulent transactions, advance fee fraud syndicates, and criminal elements who snatched or diverted them,” he said.

Jimoh noted that investigations revealed that some trusted drivers absconded with their employers’ vehicles, while others were recovered after being sold illegally. “We still have about 70 additional vehicles under investigation due to space constraints,” he added.

He invited residents and victims of vehicle theft, especially those from Lagos and neighbouring states, to visit the Command Headquarters for identification and possible retrieval of their vehicles.

Beyond vehicle recovery, CP Jimoh said over 82 firearms, including five AK-47 rifles, were recovered mainly from cultists and armed gangs. The Commissioner confirmed the arrest of over 50 suspected cultists across Lagos, adding that anti-cultism squads have been activated in all 14 area commands of the state.

He particularly mentioned the arrest of one Wasiu Akiwande, also known as Olu Riasho, who allegedly confessed to owning multiple weapons used in various criminal operations. “He has admitted to several killings and will be charged to court accordingly. More than 10 families have come forward with allegations linking him to their loved ones’ deaths,” Jimoh said.

He warned that the command would not hesitate to prosecute individuals using toy guns or fabricated weapons to commit crimes. Displaying items recovered during operations, he demonstrated how criminals had used realistic-looking toy guns to intimidate victims.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting the police with logistics and advanced crime-fighting equipment. He also acknowledged the role of public intelligence in aiding arrests and recoveries.

Jimoh further highlighted the impact of the newly formed Lagos Strike Force, a tactical unit complementing existing security formations. “The Strike Force has been instrumental in addressing flashpoints and ensuring security during major public events and examinations, especially in volatile areas like Ijora-Badia,” he said.

In closing, CP Jimoh reassured Lagosians of their safety, stating that the state has not recorded any major armed robbery incidents since his assumption of office. “Lagos is safe and secure. Residents and visitors are encouraged to go about their lawful activities without fear or apprehension,” he concluded.