The Lagos State police command says it has arrested Wasiu Akinwande, also known as Olori Eso, a notorious hired killer and armed robbery kingpin.
Akinwande, 44, was captured on June 20, 2025, in a special operation code-named “Silence, Speed, and Surprise” conducted by the Command’s Tactical Squad in his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State.
Akinwande, described as the most wanted suspect in Lagos history in recent times, has been terrorising Mushin and its environs with his gang, carrying out armed robberies, cold-blooded murders, kidnappings, and cult-related killings.
The police recovered a cache of sophisticated firearms and incriminating items from his hideout, including two AK-47 rifles, one K2 assault rifle, one Red Ryder rifle, three pump-action rifles and two locally made single-barrel pistols.
Other items recovered from the hideout include 57 live cartridges, 70 5.56 live ammunition, 27 9mm ammunition, an expended 5.56 ammunition, a dagger, three walkie-talkies and nine international passports belonging to different individuals.
The arrest is a major breakthrough in the police’s fight against violent crimes in Lagos State, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos Police spokesman, indicated in a statement.
Akinwande’s reign of terror had instilled fear and apprehension in residents, posing a dangerous threat to law and order.
According to the police, four families have already come forward to identify him as the suspect behind the killings of their children and wards.
The police command has assured the public that Akinwande will face the full weight of the law for his crimes.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commended the officers involved in the operation for their bravery and dedication. He urged the public to continue supporting the police by providing timely and credible information to aid its crime-fighting efforts.
BusinessDay