By Akinwale Kasali
Following series of harassments, robberies, burglaries and cult clashes that occurred within the Agbado Ijaiye, Sango, Ijoko and Ifo axis of the State, the Ogun State Police Command has made series of arrest in connection to the incidents, with over 150 suspects arrested.
The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has vowed to deal ruthlessly with criminals in the state, while reading riot act over the heinous crimes committed by the hoodlums.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Kunle Somorin, he said the Governor has made the protection of lives and properties of Ogun State residents is his core mandate, which would never toy with or jeopardize.
The governor added that: “It has become expedient that we do not spare the rod and spoil the child. Anybody, no matter whose child he or she is, if found guilty of armed robbery, would be visited with the full weight of the law, including capital punishment”.
The governor however urged the police to intensify efforts at curbing the nefarious activities of criminals, asking them to smoke out their hideouts and promptly investigate those involved in the nightmarish activities, not only in Ifo and Ado-Odo local governments but across the State.
He said the State would avail all other security outfits, including the Department of State Security Service and the armed forces, with necessary material and logistic support to end the reign of terror unleashed by armed robbers on the State.
“I will not hesitate to confirm sentences, even of capital punishment, if that will deter these social misfits. Ogun has zero- tolerance for criminals and we will deal with the with venomous measures. Enough is enough”, the governor said.
Commending the Ogun State Police Command, Governor Abiodun said the swiiftness and prompt adherence to directive of the State Government to flush out those turning the sit-at-home order to a criminal enterprise.
He further enjoined all other relevant agencies to immediately up the ante of their intelligence gathering mechanisms to ensure that there’s no reoccurrence of the criminal acts, especially as the State continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Ogun State government restates its commitment to ensuring that the State is conducive for living and businesses, without fear of criminals and other unscrupulous elements.
The governor added that he would continue to give all necessary support to security agencies, as he has done by providing mobility and other working equipment for effective service delivery.
The government enjoins all law-abiding citizens and residents to remain calm and continue to comply with the stay-at-home directive, as the situation is now fully under control.
The Ogun State Police Command has however reiterated it’s commitment to serve the people and their security Paramount.
In an official statement by the Police, it stated that it has arrested 150 suspects in connection with the unrest along Agbado Ijaiye, Sango, Ijoko and Ifo Axis of the State and the suspects are currently being interrogated.
The Police however stressed that it is working with other relevant agencies, and will remain on ground, as further arrests may be made and to reassure the law-abiding citizens that the situation is under control.
It added that Governor Abiodun, will continue to make good his promise not to condone acts of criminality under any guise.
