- Who: Wasiu Akinwande, aka ‘Olori Eso,’ a notorious hired assassin.
- What: Arrested after 15 years of terrorizing Mushin and other areas of Lagos State.
- Why: Responsible for numerous armed robberies, murders, kidnappings, and cult-related killings.
- Where: Arrested in his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State.
- Impact: His capture brings relief to residents who have lived in fear for years.
The End of a Reign of Terror
For 15 long years, Wasiu Akinwande, the notorious hired assassin known as ‘Olori Eso,’ spread fear and terror throughout Lagos State. The Lagos State Police Command finally apprehended this 44-year-old kingpin, head of a killer gang, and cultist, marking a significant victory in the fight against violent crime.
The Most Wanted Man in Lagos
Akinwande was arguably the most wanted man in Lagos history. His arrest signals a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat violent crimes threatening the security of residents in Mushin and other parts of Lagos State.
A Dramatic Arrest
After several attempts, the Police Tactical Squad successfully arrested Akinwande in his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State. This arrest brings an end to his long run from justice.
Years of Criminal Activity
From 2009 to 2024, Akinwande and his gangs terrorized communities, especially in the Mushin area of Lagos State. They were responsible for a string of armed robberies, cold-blooded murders, kidnappings, and cult-related killings. His actions instilled fear and threatened law and order.
Trauma and Pain
Akinwande’s criminal activities have inflicted trauma, horror, agony, and pain on the families of his victims. The Lagos State Police Command has been investigating numerous high-profile crimes linked to him.
Unwavering Pursuit of Justice
Despite Akinwande’s attempts to evade capture by moving from state to state, the Lagos State Police Command remained committed to bringing him to justice. Their persistence paid off with his eventual arrest.
Cache of Weapons Recovered
During a raid on his house in Mushin, police recovered a cache of weapons and incriminating items that Akinwande admitted to using for his criminal operations. The recovered firearms include:
- Two AK-47 rifles
- One K2 Assault rifle
- One Red Ryder rifle
- Three pump-action rifles
- Two locally made single-barrel pistols
- Five magazines
- 57 live cartridges
- 70 5.56 live ammunition
- 27 9mm ammunition
- One expended 5.56 ammunition
- One dagger
- Three walkie-talkies
- Nine international passports belonging to different individuals
The sheer volume of weaponry underscores the scale of Akinwande’s criminal enterprise. It showcases the danger he posed to the communities around him.
Investigation and Justice
The Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), has been directed to lead a team of detectives to broaden the investigation and apprehend all suspects linked to Akinwande.
Families Identify the Suspect
Four families have already identified Akinwande as the person responsible for the killings of their loved ones, bringing a sense of closure to their long wait for justice.
Police Reassurances
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Olohundare Jimoh, reassured residents that their safety and security remain a top priority. He commended the officers involved in the operation and urged the public to continue providing information to aid crime-fighting efforts.
What Happens Next?
Akinwande is currently in custody under heavy security and will face the full weight of the law for his crimes. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
The arrest of ‘Olori Eso’ marks a significant victory for law enforcement and a step toward restoring peace and security in Lagos State. While this arrest does not erase the past, it offers hope for a safer future.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Lagos State has been working on implementing smart city initiatives to enhance security and improve the quality of life for its residents? These initiatives, including improved surveillance and rapid response systems, played a role in enabling law enforcement to have the capacity to find and arrest criminals.
