Lagos residents are breathing a sigh of relief after the police dismantled a notorious “One Chance” robbery gang operating in the Ajah area of the city. Two members of the syndicate, Igwe Obi, 44, and Solomon Adebayo, 33, were arrested by officers from the Zone 2 Police Command at Ijora Badia Bridge.
The two suspects, who had been terrorising passengers along the Bonny Camp/Ajah route, used a unique method to rob unsuspecting commuters. They posed as a driver and conductor of a commercial bus, before striking and stealing mobile phones, cash, and other valuables from their victims.
According to a statement released by Zone 2 Police Command spokesperson, SP. Umma Ayuba, the suspects were arrested following an intensive investigation based on intelligence gathered by Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade.
“The suspects were apprehended based on intelligence gathered by AIG Adegoke Fayoade, and a team of operatives attached to the Zonal Oracle Section discreetly investigated them before making the arrest,” Ayuba explained.
Ayuba revealed that Obi and Adebayo confessed to their involvement in several “One Chance” robberies along the Ajah axis over the last two years. They targeted passengers who were unaware of the danger. Once the robbery was complete, the stolen phones were sold to receivers in Ajegunle, a well-known area in Lagos.
In the statement, Ayuba further clarified the robbers’ method. “They would disguise themselves as a driver and conductor of a commercial bus. Once passengers were on board, they would strike, robbing them of their valuables,” she added.
The arrests have raised concerns about the growing threat of “One Chance” robbery operations in Lagos. These gangs, notorious for their ability to blend in with public transport systems, have caused widespread fear among commuters. In a typical “One Chance” attack, the unsuspecting victim boards a commercial bus, only to be targeted by the criminals.
This is not the first time that Lagos residents have fallen victim to such robberies. In recent months, there have been increasing reports of criminal gangs operating in different parts of the city, taking advantage of Lagos’s busy streets and bustling public transport systems.
A senior police officer, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared some insight into the trend. “The suspects often target people who are in a hurry or distracted by their phones. The robbers are quick and organised, and they usually carry out their crimes without drawing attention,” the officer explained.
The police have intensified efforts to curb these crimes by focusing on high-risk areas, including Ajah, Ijora, and other parts of the city where “One Chance” robbery gangs are known to operate. The authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant, especially during the holiday season when crime rates traditionally rise.
In a public appeal, SP. Ayuba advised residents to be cautious when using commercial vehicles. “We advise members of the public to be more vigilant, especially during the yuletide period. We are working tirelessly to ensure that this Christmas season is free from such criminal activities,” Ayuba said.
The Zone 2 Police Command has also confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the syndicate. Police officials have stressed that they will leave no stone unturned in their quest to dismantle the gang and bring other criminals to justice.
As the investigation continues, Obi and Adebayo are expected to be charged in court once all the facts have been gathered. The police have assured the public that they are committed to making Lagos a safer place for all.
Lagosians have welcomed the arrest, with many expressing their gratitude towards the police for their swift action. Some residents took to social media to praise the police, while others shared their own experiences of falling victim to similar “One Chance” robberies.
“It’s about time the police stepped up to deal with these criminals. I’m relieved they caught these guys. I was nearly a victim myself a few months ago,” said a resident, Ishola Aluko.
Although the police have made some progress, many residents continue to feel uneasy about using commercial transport. The situation has sparked a wider debate on the need for stricter regulation and surveillance of public transport systems, as well as improved safety measures for commuters.