Lagos Police Arrest Notorious Armed Robbery Kingpin Behind Allen Avenue Gold Jewellery Attack
Lagos Police Arrest Notorious Armed Robbery Kingpin Behind Allen Avenue Gold Jewellery Attack
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
In a major breakthrough for law enforcement, the Lagos State Police Command has apprehended a notorious armed robbery kingpin identified as John Samuel, 28, who allegedly masterminded the violent gold jewellery attack that shook Allen Avenue, Ikeja, last month.
The suspect, described by police authorities as a hardened criminal and a serial offender, was tracked to his hideout in Epe and arrested around 2:00 p.m. on 19 September 2025 following days of coordinated surveillance and intelligence-led operations.
Shocking Details of the Allen Avenue Robbery
According to the Lagos Police Command, the incident occurred on 18 August 2025 when the suspect, armed with an English pistol, attacked businessman Mr Gbenga Obama in broad daylight along Gbajobi Street, Allen Avenue.
Akahi News gathered that CCTV footage later revealed Samuel shooting the victim before dispossessing him of a luxury gold necklace and other valuables while his accomplice waited on a motorcycle for a quick getaway.
The victim sustained serious gunshot injuries but was later treated and discharged from hospital. Police investigations further revealed that the stolen necklace was sold for a reported ₦4 million—far below its actual market value.
A Serial Offender With a Dangerous Record
Police sources confirmed that John Samuel, originally from Akwa Ibom State, had recently been released from prison after serving a six-year jail term for armed robbery. His swift return to violent crime has raised concerns about repeat offenders and the urgent need for stricter measures to curb armed attacks in Lagos and beyond.
The suspect reportedly confessed to the crime during interrogation, with ongoing investigations aimed at tracing his accomplices and recovering additional weapons possibly linked to other unsolved armed robbery cases.
Police Commissioner Vows Justice, Warns Criminals
Confirming the arrest, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohudare Jimoh, commended the operatives for what he described as a well-coordinated and courageous operation.
“The suspect is notorious for attacking victims with reckless violence before stealing valuables. We will ensure that all his accomplices are tracked down and brought to justice. Lagos has no hiding place for criminal elements,” CP Jimoh stated.
He also reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting residents and businesses, stressing that intelligence-led policing remains central to tackling violent crimes across the state.
Ongoing Crackdown on Armed Robbery Gangs
Security analysts say the arrest reflects the growing efficiency of Lagos Police in dealing with violent crimes through technology, intelligence sharing, and improved community collaboration.
Similar operations, Akahi News learnt, are ongoing to dismantle armed robbery gangs operating in other parts of the state, with police authorities assuring residents of enhanced safety measures as the year draws to a close.
Akahi News gathered that the suspect will be charged to court once investigations are concluded, as the Command intensifies its crackdown on organised crime networks.
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