RESIDENTS of Akure, the Ondo State capital, may have narrowly escaped a major security breach following a police operation that led to the arrest of six suspects over an alleged plot targeting key government facilities.
News Point Nigeria reports that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, disclosed to journalists on Thursday that the operation was conducted on April 15, 2026, based on credible intelligence regarding a suspected criminal network operating across multiple states.
According to him, officers acted promptly on the intelligence, moving to the identified location where the suspects were apprehended before any planned attack could be executed. He said the swift response of the operatives helped to avert what could have been a significant security incident.
A search carried out at a residence in the Oke-Odu area of Akure reportedly uncovered materials believed to be components for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), alongside other items. Recovered exhibits include 217 bottles, a bag of sugar, 17 mobile phones, two laptops, N187,000 in cash, motorcycles, and suspected charms.
The suspects were identified as Adekunle Prosper (56), Ojo Olumide (39), Tope Kolawole (40), Ahmed Salihu (40), Bolaji Adebowale (46), and Gbadebo Abidemi (43).
Police said preliminary investigations indicate that the group may have been involved in assembling explosive devices intended for deployment at strategic locations. Officers also revealed that a document detailing potential targets was recovered, suggesting a coordinated plan.
Lawal called on landlords and property managers to remain vigilant and conduct thorough background checks on prospective tenants, noting that residential buildings are sometimes used as bases for unlawful activities.
In a separate operation, the police command in Ondo State also arrested 10 individuals suspected to be involved in cult-related activities during a raid in Ondo Town. Among those apprehended is a suspected leader, Oluwatosin Temitope, who had earlier been declared wanted in connection with reported violent incidents.
Police said the suspect is being investigated over a shooting involving a victim identified as “Primo” in March 2026, as well as another incident that occurred at a bar in 2025.
Items recovered from the group include a firearm, cutlasses, a battle axe, insignia, and charms. Authorities added that the suspects are believed to have links with confraternities such as Aiye, Eiye, and Alora.
The Commissioner commended the officers involved in the operations, stressing the importance of intelligence-driven policing in tackling evolving security threats. He reassured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
All suspects remain in custody and are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. Lawal also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support law enforcement agencies with timely and useful information.
