In a decisive move to stem the tide of violent crime in Ogun State, the Zone 2 Police Command has apprehended a four-man gang suspected of armed robbery, kidnapping, and cult-related activities that have plagued communities in Ewekoro Local Government Area and its environs.
The arrest followed credible intelligence received by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 2 Command, which indicated the existence of a deadly syndicate of armed robbers and AIYE cult members. According to the statement issued by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ayuba T. Umma, anipr, “These individuals specialized in robbing commercial motorcyclists and hijacking cement-laden trucks along the Onigbedu axis of Ewekoro. Their operations had instilled fear among residents and road users within the area.”
On May 8, 2025, operatives from the Zonal Dragon Squad 2 arrested three suspects — Damilare Babatunde (30), also known as “Drey,” Fatai Ishola (25), and Segun Hammed (28), alias “Opa” — at the Sabo Hausa Market in Eleweran, Abeokuta. The suspects were apprehended while allegedly planning a robbery operation. Acting on intelligence obtained during their interrogation, police operatives later tracked down and arrested a fourth suspect, Abiodun Olanrewaju (45), at his hideout in Onigbedu, Ewekoro LGA.
CSP Ayuba disclosed that the suspects confessed to being responsible for the hijacking of several cement trucks in the area. “They admitted to orchestrating multiple hijackings and disclosed details of their modus operandi, including how they dispossess truck drivers and escape with the cargo,” she noted.
More disturbingly, the suspects also confessed to the kidnapping of two Chinese nationals — Liang Ding Jia and Chen Wen Guang — on August 11, 2024. “The gang collected a ransom of Thirty Million Naira (₦30,000,000) before releasing the victims. Their confessions align with the findings of ongoing investigations,” CSP Ayuba added.
The statement further revealed the deeply troubling involvement of one of the suspects, Segun Hammed, in a heinous robbery incident that occurred in Obada Oko on January 27, 2025. During that attack, he reportedly forcefully raped a 62-year-old woman in the presence of her two children. According to the victim, the suspect initially attempted to violate her daughter, but after her pleas, he turned on her instead. “The victims were able to identify Hammed and have recounted the horrifying experience,” CSP Ayuba said.
In the course of the investigation, several incriminating items were recovered from the suspects. These include:
One locally fabricated pistol, used in several of the gang’s operations.
One Beretta pistol loaded with thirteen (13) live rounds, indicating access to dangerous weapons.
Three live cartridges, prepared for immediate use.
Two unregistered Bajaj motorcycles, believed to be used for transportation during crimes and escape.
Additionally, items stolen during their most recent operation were confirmed to include ₦300,000 in cash, one iPhone 7 Plus, a Tecno mobile phone, and ATM cards from Opay Digital Services and UBA, all belonging to victims. These are reportedly in possession of another gang member currently at large. “Efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover all remaining stolen items,” CSP Ayuba affirmed.
She concluded by reiterating the commitment of the Zone 2 Command to rid communities under its jurisdiction of criminal elements. “This successful operation is a testament to the relentless work of our officers and our determination to ensure the safety and security of the public. Upon the completion of investigations, the suspects will be charged to court and made to face the full weight of the law,” she said.