Oyo govt intensifies clampdown on crime, demolishes building linked to arms storage
By Adejayam Gbenga
The Oyo State Government on Tuesday demolished a building in Ibadan allegedly used for the storage of arms and ammunition by suspected criminals, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security across the state.
The demolition was carried out on the directive of Governor Seyi Makinde following intelligence reports and investigations by security agencies which linked the property to the concealment of weapons reportedly used for kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.
The Commissioner for Public Works, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, said the action was based on verified intelligence gathered by security operatives, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within the state.
He explained that recent cases of insecurity, including the abduction of schoolchildren in some parts of Oyo State, necessitated intensified security operations that led to the discovery of suspected hideouts used by criminal elements.
According to him, the demolition was approved after a formal report from the Commissioner of Police was submitted to the governor, adding that due process was followed before the action was taken.
Mogbonjubola also warned landlords and property owners across the state to ensure proper verification of tenants before renting out their buildings, stressing that such negligence could aid criminal activities.
In a related development, the Oyo State Police Command said it had recovered additional firearms, ammunition, vehicles, and motorcycles allegedly linked to a suspected criminal network led by Surajudeen Babatunde Adio, popularly known as “Surii Ilupeju.”
The police added that investigations were ongoing to trace the ownership of the recovered items and apprehend other suspects connected to the criminal network.
