The Oyo State Police Command says it has recovered a tricycle allegedly stolen at gunpoint and arrested a suspected armed robber in Ilorin, Kwara State, following intelligence received.

A statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, said operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit acted swiftly on the information by mounting an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation at the Irepo area, where they successfully intercepted the tricycle, bearing registration number Lagos EPE 236 QR, and arrested the rider, Akindele Seun, 31.

Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to having robbed the owner of the tricycle at gunpoint in Ilorin, Kwara State, before fleeing with the vehicle into Oyo State.

The statement said the recovered tricycle has been taken into police custody, while concerted efforts are under way to trace and identify its rightful owner and facilitate its return. It added that investigations are also ongoing to apprehend any other person connected with the crime.

The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that Oyo State does not become a safe haven or breeding ground for crime and criminality.

He emphasised that individuals who commit crimes within the state, as well as those who seek to transport the proceeds or instruments of crime into Oyo State, will continue to be identified, arrested, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law, irrespective of where such offences were committed.

He assured residents that the command remains resolute in denying criminal elements any operating space within the state and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information in support of ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property.