The Lagos State Police Command dismantled a fuel tanker hijacking syndicate on Saturday, arresting seven suspects and recovering a stolen 45,000-litre petrol tanker during a targeted sting operation.
Acting on a distress call received around 6:00 a.m., officers responded immediately after a fuel tanker driver reported that unidentified individuals had hijacked his truck in the Alaka area of Surulere while transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
According to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the driver informed police that the tanker was forcefully diverted en route to its destination.
Without delay, a team of detectives and tactical operatives launched a search. Shortly after, they located the hijacked tanker, emptied and abandoned in the Orile area of Lagos.
Subsequently, investigators followed leads to a filling station in Ejigbo, where the stolen petrol had allegedly been offloaded. Upon arrival, officers caught a second tanker being filled with the diverted PMS.
In a swift and coordinated move, police arrested seven suspects at the scene, all of whom were allegedly linked to the hijacking and illicit resale of the fuel.
The suspects include:
- Izuchukwu Nwanoruo (34), businessman from Ejigbo
- Kayode Falodun (29), tricycle operator
- Ojo Ayodele (35), mechanic from Ijegun Ijedodo
- Ayomide Thompson (24), graphics designer
- Ahmed Saliu (37), driver from Ejigbo
- Igbalaye Kareem (38), trader from Ogun State
- Babatunde Ahmed (38), driver from Ejigbo
In addition, officers seized the second tanker used to transport the stolen fuel, now secured as police evidence.
Currently, the suspects remain in custody and are cooperating with the investigation. SP Hundeyin confirmed that charges will be filed as soon as the probe is concluded.
Commissioner Praises Swift Response
Reacting to the breakthrough, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, praised the professionalism and speed of the operatives.
“This operation highlights our resolve to dismantle organized criminal networks and protect the state’s critical assets,” Jimoh said. He urged residents to remain vigilant and share timely, actionable information with law enforcement.
As fuel theft continues to threaten both the economy and public safety, the Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance policy against petroleum-related crimes.