The Police detectives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested one Jude Onouha, aged 46, and alleged to be the kingpin and gang leader of a notorious criminal syndicate.

The Police explained that members of the gang specialise in disguising themselves as security operatives in fake security outfit uniforms and using a Mercedes car jack modified to look like firearms to gain access into estates within Lagos metropolis, claiming to be on investigation activities.

The Command said that the gang had used this guise to invade some estates and vandalise Toyota brand vehicles such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650 Jeep, Mercedes Benz, and other SUVs.

The Police further explained that the gang targets brainboxes, tapping glasses, control devices, wiring, side mirrors, and other expensive car components, and had been on the wanted list of the Lagos State Police Command for about four weeks.

The Command said the kingpin has been assisting Police detectives in the further investigation of the case.

Efforts are being intensified to arrest other members of the gang for investigation and prosecution.

Recovered from the Suspect were a Mercedes-Benz car jack and a face cap with the inscription, ‘Special Force,’ which the gang used to disguise themselves as security operatives.

“The Command hereby wishes to advise residents, particularly estate management and security guards, to exercise vigilance and utmost caution whenever person(s) represent themselves as operatives of any security agency and seek to gain entrance into their estates. In addition to basic verification, residents are urged to collaborate closely with the Police by contacting the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) covering their area to confirm the authenticity of any such security personnel before granting them access to their estates,” the statement read.

“Where there is any doubt, such persons should immediately be referred to the nearest Police division. The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, enjoins residents and estate management to remain vigilant, collaborate closely with their respective DPOs, and make use of the Command’s emergency numbers: 08063299264, 09053872208, 08087332678, for quick intervention.

“He assures that together, through vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting, the safety and security of all communities in Lagos State will be strengthened,” it added.