By Deborah Nnamdi
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 46-year-old man, Jude Onouha, alleged kingpin of a notorious gang that specialised in vandalising high-end vehicles across residential estates in the state.
In a statement released on Saturday via X, the Command said the syndicate disguised themselves in fake security uniforms and used a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack designed to look like a firearm to deceive estate security personnel. Under the pretext of carrying out security checks, the gang gained entry into gated estates.
Once inside, they reportedly targeted luxury vehicles including Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650, Mercedes-Benz, and other SUVs, systematically removing brainboxes, tapping glasses, wiring systems, side mirrors, and control devices.
Items recovered from Onouha included the fake weapon and a face cap bearing the inscription “Special Force,” which he allegedly used for disguise.
Confirming the arrest, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, described the breakthrough as a major success against organized crime in the state.
“The suspect has already corroborated his involvement in the crimes and is assisting our detectives with ongoing investigations. Efforts are being intensified to arrest the other fleeing members of the gang so they can face the full weight of the law,” Jimoh said.
The Commissioner further urged estate managers and residents to remain vigilant and verify the identities of anyone posing as a security operative before granting them access.
The Command assured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that investigations are ongoing to track and prosecute the remaining suspects.
