Three individuals suspected of armed robbery were rescued by officers of the Lagos State Police Command after they were severely beaten by a mob in the Sangotedo area of Lagos State.
The suspects identified as Balogun Teslim, Suleman Balogun, and Peter Oluwagbemi were arrested in connection with robbery incidents reported at a residential estate on April 11 and April 13.
According to the police, their arrest followed a distress call that alerted security personnel to suspicious activities in the area, prompting a rapid response.
During the operation, officers recovered several items believed to have been used in the alleged crimes. These included a locally made pistol loaded with six rounds of live 9mm ammunition, two black face masks, ropes, a hammer, a large roll of cellophane tape, black jackets, and a pair of pliers.
Before the police arrived, however, the suspects had already been attacked by an angry crowd. Witnesses said residents descended on them in an attempt to administer instant punishment.
“The suspects were mobbed by members of the public before the arrival of the Police. They were subsequently rescued and taken to a Police medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment,” the statement said.
Police investigations have since revealed that two of the suspects confessed to their involvement in the robberies. They also named another individual, identified as Kinsley, who is currently on the run, as the leader of the group.
“Two of the suspects have confessed to the crime and identified one Kinsley ‘m’, who is currently at large, as their gang leader. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and bring all those involved to justice,” the statement added.
Commenting on the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Tijani Fatai, reiterated the Command’s firm stance against violent crime while condemning acts of jungle justice.
He cautioned residents against taking the law into their own hands and emphasized the importance of reporting suspected criminal activity to law enforcement agencies.
The police also advised members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report unusual or suspicious movements through official emergency channels.
