The Ogun State Police Command has uncovered an AK-47 rifle and ammunition inside an unregistered Mercedes-Benz GLK as investigations continue into a foiled armed robbery operation in the Iyesi area of Ota, Ogun State.
The discovery has provided investigators with additional exhibits as security operatives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the robbery incident, including the possible connection between the recovered vehicle, firearms and individuals suspected of involvement in the criminal operation.
According to the police, the rifle and two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition were found during a search of the unregistered Mercedes-Benz GLK. The vehicle has since been secured alongside the recovered items as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Ogun State, Oluseyi Babaseyi, announced the development in a statement, describing the recovery as another outcome of the Command’s continuing security operations in Ota.
He explained that the latest breakthrough followed an earlier police intervention in the Ijaba area of Iyesi, where officers responded to a reported robbery incident and took action against suspected armed robbers.
During the initial operation, police operatives reportedly neutralised one suspected armed robber. The officers also recovered two vehicles believed to have been stolen, alongside other items suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.
A locally manufactured pistol and ammunition were equally recovered during the operation, according to the police.
The subsequent discovery of an AK-47 rifle inside the Mercedes-Benz GLK has expanded the list of exhibits available to investigators, who are now working to establish the ownership and history of the vehicle as well as the circumstances surrounding the presence of the firearm.
Although the police have not disclosed further details about the individuals who may be connected to the recovered vehicle, the Command confirmed that investigations were still in progress.
Babaseyi stated that the Mercedes-Benz and all recovered exhibits had been taken into police custody, adding that the investigation would continue to determine other relevant details surrounding the incident.
The police did not disclose whether additional suspects had been arrested in connection with the latest recovery or whether the recovered AK-47 had been used during the robbery.
The development comes amid the Ogun State Police Command’s efforts to strengthen security operations and respond to criminal activities across communities within its jurisdiction.
Ota, which is one of the major commercial and industrial centres in Ogun State, has communities and business establishments that require sustained security attention.
The police operation in Iyesi and the subsequent recovery of weapons form part of the Command’s reported efforts to tackle threats to public safety.
Reacting to the latest development, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the officers involved in the operations for their vigilance and professional conduct.
Ojajuni acknowledged the efforts of the personnel, particularly their response to the reported robbery and subsequent recovery of items considered relevant to the investigation.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to proactive policing, stressing that officers would continue to work towards preventing criminal activities and protecting residents, businesses and other property across the state.
The commissioner also assured members of the public that the police would sustain their operational activities and remain attentive to security concerns raised by communities.
Beyond the activities of security personnel, Ojajuni emphasised the importance of public cooperation in tackling crime, urging residents to provide useful information that could assist law enforcement agencies.
He encouraged people to report suspicious movements, unusual activities and credible security threats to the appropriate authorities rather than withholding information that could help prevent criminal incidents.
According to the Command, timely intelligence from members of the public remains important in identifying criminal activities, supporting investigations and enabling officers to respond appropriately to security challenges.
Residents were therefore advised to maintain communication with the police and promptly report information that could assist in protecting their neighbourhoods.
The police further maintained that officers would remain vigilant in carrying out their statutory responsibilities, including the prevention of crime, protection of lives and property, and investigation of reported offences.
With the recovery of the Mercedes-Benz GLK, AK-47 rifle, ammunition and other exhibits, investigators are expected to continue examining available evidence to establish the full circumstances of the Iyesi robbery incident.
The Command has, however, yet to provide further information on possible additional arrests or the identities of other individuals who may be connected to the case.
For now, the investigation remains ongoing, while the police have reiterated their determination to sustain security operations and strengthen cooperation with residents across Ogun State.
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