By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspected armed robbers following a highway attack on the Oyo-Iwo Expressway in Afijio Local Government Area. The robbery occurred in the early hours of Sunday, July 5, 2026, around Akoda Village. Acting on a distress call, operatives rescued victims, recovered a firearm, and launched an intelligence-driven operation that led to the arrests.
Robbers Blocked Highway and Attacked Motorists
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Ibadan.
According to him, the Police Control Room at Eleyele received a distress call after armed robbers barricaded the Oyo-Iwo Expressway.
The suspects reportedly targeted motorists and passengers travelling from a nearby market towards Iwo town.
During the attack, the gang stole valuables from victims.
Several victims also suffered machete injuries and other forms of violence.
Police Rescue Victims and Recover Firearm
Following the report, Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Olugbenga, directed operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to respond immediately.
The officers quickly secured the area and rescued the victims.
They also searched the scene and recovered one single-barrel gun and two clubs believed to have been used during the robbery.
Intelligence Operation Leads to Arrests
The police later launched an intelligence-driven operation to track the suspects.
The operation led to the arrest of Abubakar Jape and Sheu Dengi at their hideouts.
According to Ayanlade, both suspects confessed to participating in the robbery during interrogation.
The police also conducted an identification parade.
Victims positively identified the suspects as members of the gang that attacked them.
Furthermore, officers recovered a rechargeable touchlight belonging to one of the victims during a search of a hideout.
Police Intensify Hunt for Other Gang Members
Commissioner Olugbenga praised the professionalism and swift response of the operatives.
He described the arrests as another major success in the command’s efforts to combat violent crime across Oyo State.
The commissioner also assured residents that police would continue the operation until they arrest every member of the gang.
He urged the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
Security Presence Increased on Oyo-Iwo Expressway
The Oyo-Iwo Expressway connects communities in Oyo State with neighbouring Osun State.
The route remains a major corridor for motorists and traders.
However, it has recorded occasional highway robbery incidents, especially during early mornings and late nights.
Consequently, security agencies have increased patrols and intelligence operations along the highway to improve safety and reduce violent crime.
