CP Adebowale Lawal Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Crime in Ondo State, Unveils Major Security Breakthroughs
* CP WARNS AHEAD OF JULY 7
*Two individual arrested in connection with Fraudulent Transactions Amounting to N4.5 Million
By Exponent News, July 4, 2025 | Akure
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, has declared a renewed and unrelenting resolve to combat crime and all forms of criminality in the state. Speaking during his maiden press briefing in Akure on Friday, July 4, 2025, the CP emphasized the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, community collaboration, and technological innovation to maintain peace and order across Ondo State.
Addressing journalists and stakeholders, CP Lawal outlined the strategic direction of the command, stating that his assumption of duty came with “an unwavering commitment to confront crime head-on.” He emphasized the use of advanced digital surveillance tools, forensic techniques, and inter-agency cooperation to proactively dismantle criminal networks operating within the state.
“Our mission has been clear from the onset — to restore and maintain law and order, safeguard lives and property, and create an atmosphere of peace and security for all law-abiding residents,” he said.
MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS RECORDED
1. Dismantling of Armed Robbery Syndicate:
CP Lawal announced the arrest of a four-man armed robbery gang responsible for a spate of violent attacks and vehicle thefts around Akure. The suspects were apprehended following coordinated intelligence operations. Items recovered include the stolen vehicle and several mobile devices. Investigations are ongoing to trace other accomplices and assets.
2. Fraudulent Transactions Amounting to N4.5 Million:
The Command’s SWAT Unit arrested two individuals in connection with a fraud case reported by an Ogun-based online vendor. The suspects were involved in the use of fake bank alerts to purchase goods. The prime suspect remains at large.
3. Recovery of Stolen Livestock Worth N41 Million:
In a case reported on July 1, 2025, the Command recovered 22 stolen cows out of 52 allegedly taken by an employee of Prince Fashuwa Peter Oyeleye. The suspect is still at large, with efforts ongoing to recover the rest of the livestock.
4. Arrest of Cult Member in Akure:
Acting on intelligence, the police arrested a notorious cultist, Boluaji, Israel , a known member of the Eiye confraternity responsible for terrorizing students and residents in Akure. His accomplice is currently on the run.
5. Domestic Homicide Case:
On June 27, 2025, one Gabriel Michael was arrested for allegedly stabbing his brother, Abu Simon, Paius to death during a domestic dispute. The case has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department for prosecution.
6. Burglary and Theft Case:
The police recovered electronic gadgets and cash stolen during a residential burglary on June 21, 2025. The suspect, a known habitual buyer of stolen goods, has been arrested and will be charged accordingly.
FALSE KIDNAPPING RUMOURS ADDRESSED
The CP refuted viral social media claims alleging the discovery of a kidnappers’ den along Old Ikare Road. He clarified that the site in question is an abandoned government building with no evidence linking it to any criminal activity. The police warned content creators and media outlets to desist from spreading false information capable of inciting public panic.
“Misinformation undermines public trust and threatens the peace we’ve collectively built,” CP Lawal cautioned.
BOOST IN OPERATIONAL ASSETS
In a significant show of support, the Nigerian Police Force Headquarters has deployed a state-of-the-art gunboat to enhance security in Ondo’s riverine communities. The Ondo State Government also provided new patrol vehicles to improve mobility and response time across rural and urban areas.
“These assets will significantly enhance our capability to secure every corner of Ondo State — on land and water,” CP Lawal said.
COURTISM: CP WARNS AHEAD OF JULY 7
The Commissioner issued a stern warning ahead of the notorious cult-related date “7-7,” appealing to parents to caution their wards. He affirmed that the Command has zero tolerance for cultism and has deployed personnel covertly and overtly across communities.
“We will take the battle to the cultists. Ondo State must remain violence-free,” he said.
CALL FOR PARTNERSHIP
In concluding his address, CP Lawal called on residents to continue cooperating with the police through credible and timely information, noting that the achievements recorded were made possible through public support
.“With continued collaboration and the deployment of technology, Ondo State will not only be secure but will stand as a model of tranquility in Nigeria,” he assured.
Summary of Major Security Achievements:
Armed Robbery: 4 suspects arrested
Fraud: 2 suspects arrested in N4.5m online scam
Livestock Theft: N41 million cattle recovered
Cultism: 1 notorious suspect arrested
Homicide: 1 suspect arrested
Burglary & Theft: 3 suspects arrested, items recovered
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through official channels.
