Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a 38-year-old man and his teenage son over alleged unlawful possession of a firearm during a stop-and-search operation along the Sagamu/Ogijo road.
The suspects, identified as Joseph Kehinde, 38, and his 13-year-old son, John Joseph, were apprehended on Sunday after police reportedly recovered a locally made pistol, one live cartridge, and a face mask.
According to police authorities, the arrest was made by officers attached to the Command’s Quick Response Squad (QRS) stationed around the Lafarge area of the highway during a routine security operation.
The police said the younger suspect was travelling in a tricycle when operatives intercepted the vehicle for a routine check.
During the search, officers reportedly discovered the firearm, live ammunition, and mask in his possession. When questioned, the boy was said to have been unable to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the items.
Police further stated that the teenager allegedly claimed that the recovered firearm belonged to his father, prompting operatives to launch an immediate follow-up investigation.
This, according to authorities, led to the arrest of the father, Joseph Kehinde, shortly after the initial discovery.
Both suspects were subsequently taken into custody and transferred, along with the recovered items, to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the possession of the weapon and whether it may be linked to any criminal activity.
They added that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Reacting to the arrest, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police commended the officers involved for what he described as vigilance, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.
He also reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance stance against the illegal possession of firearms and other related criminal activities across the state.
The police leadership assured residents that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining law and order throughout Ogun State.
Residents were further urged to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist in preventing crime and apprehending suspects.
Authorities also encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons, unusual movements, or any activity that could threaten public safety in their communities.
The arrest comes amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering across major roads and strategic locations in the state.
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