Lagos Police Nab Infamous Armed Robbery Kingpin John Samuel

In a significant victory for law enforcement in Lagos, operatives of the Lagos State Police Command successfully arrested John Samuel, a notorious armed robbery kingpin, hired assassin, and convicted murderer. The 28-year-old suspect, originally from Akwa Ibom State, was apprehended on September 19, 2025, at his hideout in Epe, following a painstaking manhunt.

John Samuel’s latest criminal escapade occurred in broad daylight on August 18, 2025, in Ikeja’s Allen Avenue, where he brazenly attacked businessman Gbenga Obama on Gbajobi Street. Armed with a firearm identified as an English pistol, Samuel shot and wounded the victim before forcibly stealing an expensive gold necklace and other valuables. CCTV footage captured the dramatic robbery, showing Samuel firing at his victim before fleeing with an accomplice riding a motorcycle.

The victim sustained serious gunshot wounds but has since received medical treatment and been discharged from the hospital. During interrogation, Samuel confessed to selling the stolen gold necklace for ₦4 million, a fraction of its actual worth.

Notably, Samuel had only been released from prison less than a month prior to the robbery, after serving six years for a prior armed robbery conviction involving capital offenses. Rather than reforming, he swiftly returned to violent crime with heightened ruthlessness.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohudare Jimoh, lauded the bravery and dedication of police operatives who tracked and captured Samuel. He reassured Lagos residents of ongoing discreet investigations into the robbery and intensified efforts to apprehend other gang members connected to Samuel.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring the safety of all Lagosians and caution any persons engaged in criminal activities that Lagos is no longer a safe haven for them,” CP Jimoh stated.

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The Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi B. Oluseyi, conveyed the message that residents should continue their lawful activities without fear, confident that the Lagos Police Command is fully engaged in protecting lives and properties across the state.

As investigations continue, the authorities are expected to prosecute John Samuel and his accomplices after all evidence is gathered and verified, affirming Lagos State’s resolve to clamp down on violent crime and protect public security.