The Lagos State Police Command has arrested Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Eso, the most wanted and notorious hired killer in Lagos in recent years, following a coordinated tactical operation code-named “Silence, Speed and Surprise” in his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State.

Akinwande, 44, has terrorized the Mushin area and environs for over a decade (2009–2024), leading multiple gangs responsible for armed robberies, kidnappings, cult-related killings, and cold-blooded murders. His criminal activities caused trauma and fear among residents and families of victims, with at least four families identifying him as responsible for the deaths of their children and wards.

Police recovered a large cache of sophisticated weapons and incriminating items from his Mushin residence, including:

1.Two AK-47 rifles

2.One K2 assault rifle

3.One Red Ryder rifle

4.Three pump-action rifles

5.Two locally made single-barrel pistols

6.Five magazines

7.57 live cartridges

8.70 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition

9.27 rounds of 9mm ammunition

10.One expended 5.56mm cartridge

ADVERTISEMENT

11.One dagger

12.Three walkie-talkies

13.Nine international passports belonging to different individuals.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, hailed the arrest as a landmark achievement in the fight against violent crime, emphasizing years of intelligence gathering and inter-state pursuit led to this success. The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of SCID has been directed to expand investigations and apprehend other suspects linked to Akinwande’s gang.

Akinwande is currently in police custody under heavy security and will face prosecution for multiple capital offenses. The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to aid ongoing crime-fighting efforts, reaffirming Lagos as a no-go area for criminals.