Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Security operatives of the Osun State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, have apprehended two suspected highway robbers allegedly involved in criminal operations targeting motorists along the Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway, a major inter-state route linking Osun and Oyo states. The arrests followed intensified patrols and intelligence gathering by the regional security outfit amid growing concerns over highway robberies in southwestern Nigeria.
The suspects, identified as 29-year-old Chima Eze and 41-year-old Sunday Okorie, were intercepted during a security operation carried out by Amotekun operatives deployed along vulnerable stretches of the highway. Authorities said both men were believed to be part of a criminal group that had been targeting travelers and motorists moving along the corridor, particularly during periods of reduced traffic and low visibility.
Security sources disclosed that the arrest occurred during a routine patrol conducted by operatives attached to the Ilesa Area Command of the Amotekun Corps. The patrol team had reportedly received intelligence indicating suspicious movements along the expressway and possible plans by criminal elements to ambush vehicles traveling through the area. Acting on the information, the operatives increased surveillance along the route and eventually intercepted the suspects.
Officials explained that the suspects attempted to evade arrest when they noticed the presence of the patrol team but were eventually apprehended after a brief pursuit. Preliminary investigations suggest that the duo had allegedly been operating along the expressway, ambushing motorists and dispossessing them of cash, phones, and other valuables.
The Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway serves as a major transport corridor connecting Osun State with Oyo State and other parts of southwestern Nigeria. The road is frequently used by commercial transport operators, traders, and private travelers commuting between cities such as Ilesa, Osogbo, Ibadan, and beyond. However, several segments of the highway pass through relatively isolated areas surrounded by bushes, which security experts say sometimes provide cover for criminal gangs.
Officials within the Osun Amotekun Corps noted that highway robbery along such routes typically involves suspects lying in wait along isolated stretches of road before suddenly intercepting vehicles. In some cases, attackers block the road or threaten motorists with weapons in order to force them to stop.
According to security authorities, the suspects are currently being interrogated as part of ongoing investigations aimed at uncovering other members of the criminal network believed to be operating in the area. Investigators are working to determine whether the suspects have connections with other robbery incidents previously reported along the expressway.
The arrests also come amid broader security efforts by authorities in southwestern Nigeria to strengthen safety on highways and rural roads. In recent years, cases of highway robbery, kidnapping, and violent attacks on motorists have prompted increased collaboration between regional security outfits and federal law enforcement agencies.
The Amotekun Corps itself was established in 2020 as a regional security initiative by the governments of the six southwestern states of Nigeria. The outfit was created to support conventional security agencies in addressing security threats including banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery in the region. Since its formation, Amotekun has played a complementary role alongside the police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other law enforcement bodies.
In Osun State, the corps has been particularly active in conducting patrols along highways, forests, and rural communities where criminal elements often attempt to establish hideouts. Security officials say intelligence gathering and cooperation with local residents have been crucial in identifying suspicious movements and preventing attacks.
Earlier incidents along the same Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway illustrate the persistent security challenges faced by travelers along the route. In a separate operation earlier this year, Amotekun operatives disrupted a robbery attempt after a motorist alerted security personnel to suspicious activities along the highway. During that incident, one suspect was apprehended while other members of the gang fled into nearby bushes. Items recovered from the arrested suspect reportedly included a cutlass, a torchlight, and a locally fabricated wooden gun designed to resemble an assault rifle.
Security experts say such locally fabricated imitation weapons are sometimes used by criminals to intimidate victims during attacks, particularly when targeting motorists traveling at night.
Confirming the recent arrests, officials of the Osun Amotekun Corps commended the operatives involved in the operation, describing their actions as a demonstration of vigilance and professionalism. Authorities emphasized that consistent patrols and rapid response mechanisms are essential to preventing criminal activities on major roads.
The corps leadership also reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Osun State. According to the agency, the success of many security operations depends heavily on information provided by residents and road users.
Members of the public were therefore encouraged to report suspicious movements, unusual gatherings, or potential security threats to security agencies. Officials stressed that timely information can help prevent crimes before they occur.
Transport operators and motorists who regularly use the Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway have welcomed the development, noting that improved security presence along the highway is essential for safe travel and economic activities in the region. Commercial drivers in particular have repeatedly called for sustained patrols along highways linking major towns and rural communities.
Security analysts say continued collaboration between regional security outfits, federal agencies, and local communities will remain crucial in addressing criminal activities along Nigeria’s highways. They note that criminals often exploit gaps in security coverage along inter-state routes, making coordinated patrols and intelligence sharing necessary.
For now, the two suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. Authorities say efforts are underway to identify other accomplices who may still be operating in the area and to dismantle any wider criminal network connected to the robbery operations.
The arrests mark another development in the ongoing security efforts aimed at restoring confidence among travelers and residents using key transportation corridors across southwestern Nigeria.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments