LAGOS — Two men suspected to be part of a group of land grabbers were arrested in the Ishawo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, following a foiled attempt to invade Wood Island Estate.
The suspects, reportedly armed with firearms and charms, were taken into custody after residents of the estate rallied to resist what appeared to be a renewed attempt at illegal land seizure.
Last year, over 100 homes were demolished in the same estate during a violent incursion by alleged land speculators. Tensions have remained high in the area ever since.
According to a police source familiar with the matter, one of the suspects, identified as Rasak Segun, was caught with a white pistol while attempting to flee through a neighboring estate. He was apprehended by local vigilantes and taken to the Owutu Police Division.
The source added that Segun, during initial questioning, admitted he had been mobilized from the Ajah area to join the operation.
In a related development, another suspect was intercepted in a Toyota Corolla where three pump-action rifles were found hidden in the vehicle. Alongside the firearms, officers also recovered various charms believed to be used for protection or intimidation.
“The driver was caught, but others in the car managed to escape when they sensed trouble,” the police source explained.
Lagos State Police spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrests in a statement to journalists. He said that one of the suspects was found with a pistol, two rounds of ammunition, and a mobile phone in his possession.
“The individual could not offer any reasonable explanation for his presence or the items found on him,” Hundeyin said. “Investigations are ongoing.”
Authorities say efforts are underway to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further unrest in the community.
