Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Akure, Nigeria — The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a suspected serial rapist and armed robbery suspect identified as Olamipekun Elegbeleye following a series of alleged violent crimes in Akure, the state capital. Police say the suspect is accused of sexually assaulting and robbing several women in different parts of the city, and has been charged and remanded in custody as investigations continue.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the arrest was made on Sunday after a targeted intelligence‑led operation that tracked Elegbeleye to a hideout in Akure. The arrest followed complaints from multiple victims who alleged that the suspect lured them under false pretences before committing the offences. Officers acted swiftly on information received from the public and mounted surveillance that ultimately led to his apprehension.
Police allege that on November 21, 2025, Elegbeleye approached a female victim by offering motorbike transport to the Afunbiowo Housing Estate area of Oke Aro, where he subsequently diverted into a secluded bush and allegedly raped her at gunpoint before stealing her valuables. Further investigations indicated that the suspect may have carried out similar attacks on at least four other women within the same general location.
During the operation to arrest him, officers recovered two mobile phones, multiple SIM cards, ATM cards and items of clothing believed to belong to some of the complainants. Police also reported that Elegbeleye allegedly transferred funds from one victim’s bank account without authorisation, a claim that adds a financial crime dimension to the charges against him.
After his arrest, Elegbeleye was charged to court and remanded at the Ondo State Correctional Centre in Akure, where he awaits further legal proceedings. The police have not publicly disclosed his legal representation status or whether bail has been sought. Authorities continue to appeal to members of the public who may have additional information or undisclosed complaints to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
The Ondo State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner Adebowale Lawal, has reiterated its commitment to tightening security and preventing gender‑based violence and violent crime in the state. The arrest of Elegbeleye comes amid intensified efforts by the command to clamp down on sexual offences, kidnapping, armed robbery and other serious crimes that have affected communities in and around Akure.
Community leaders and civil society organisations in Akure have welcomed the police action, noting that the alleged offences had caused significant fear and anxiety among women and residents. Several advocacy groups emphasise the importance of continued patrols, community policing initiatives, and victim support mechanisms to ensure that survivors of sexual violence receive adequate medical and psychological care, and that justice is served. Authorities have not released details on victim support services provided in this case.
Sexual violence and armed robbery remain pressing concerns in parts of southwestern Nigeria, where law enforcement has, in recent years, pursued a mix of intelligence‑led operations and community engagement strategies. The combination of improved reporting channels, collaborative policing with local security networks, and public awareness campaigns on personal safety are among measures officials cite as necessary to deter criminal activity.
While the arrest of Elegbeleye marks a significant operational success for the Ondo State Police Command, human rights advocates are urging a transparent and expeditious judicial process to ensure that the accused receives a fair trial and that victims’ rights are upheld throughout court proceedings. Continued scrutiny of law enforcement efforts and judicial outcomes is seen as vital for public confidence in the state’s criminal justice system.
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