The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspected armed robbers linked to a robbery operation along the Oyo-Iwo Expressway in Afijio Local Government Area and recovered a firearm allegedly used during the attack.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed on Tuesday that the suspects were arrested following a distress call received by the Police Control Room at Eleyele, Ibadan, in the early hours of Sunday, July 5, 2026.
According to the police, a gang of armed men had blocked the expressway around Akoda Village, attacking motorists and passengers travelling from a nearby market towards Iwo town.
Some victims were reportedly dispossessed of their valuables, while others sustained machete injuries during the attack.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Abimbola Olugbenga, directed operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit to move to the area.
The officers reportedly secured the scene, rescued victims and recovered a single-barrel gun and two clubs suspected to have been used by the criminals.
The police said further intelligence-led investigations led operatives to the suspects’ hideouts, where two men identified as Abubakar Jape and Sheu Dengi were arrested.
During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to taking part in the robbery. Police added that an identification parade was conducted, during which victims identified them as some of the attackers.
A search of one of the hideouts also led to the recovery of a rechargeable touchlight belonging to one of the victims.
CP Olugbenga praised the officers for their swift response and professionalism, saying the arrests showed the command’s commitment to tackling violent crimes in the state.
He assured residents that efforts were ongoing to arrest other members of the gang still at large, while urging the public to continue providing useful information to security agencies.
The Oyo-Iwo Expressway remains an important route connecting Oyo communities with neighbouring Osun State, with security agencies increasing patrols and intelligence operations along the corridor to improve safety for motorists and traders.
