The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered a tricycle allegedly stolen at gunpoint in Ilorin, Kwara State, following an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation.

The suspect, identified as Akindele Seun, 31, was apprehended by operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit along the Oyo–Ogbomoso Road after police received credible intelligence from members of the public about a suspected stolen tricycle being driven in the area.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, officers mounted a targeted stop-and-search operation at the Irepo Area, where they intercepted the tricycle bearing registration number Lagos EPE 236 QR and arrested the suspect.

During interrogation, the police said the suspect confessed to robbing the tricycle owner at gunpoint in Ilorin, Kwara State, before fleeing with the vehicle into Oyo State.

The recovered tricycle has since been taken into police custody, while efforts are ongoing to trace and identify its rightful owner for possible recovery. Police also disclosed that investigations are continuing to identify and arrest other individuals who may have been involved in the alleged crime.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, reaffirmed the Command's commitment to ensuring that Oyo State does not become a safe haven for criminals.

He stated that anyone who commits crimes within the state or attempts to move stolen property or other proceeds of crime into Oyo State will be identified, arrested, investigated, and prosecuted in accordance with the law, regardless of where the offence was committed.

The Commissioner also urged residents to continue supporting the police by providing timely and credible information to enhance efforts aimed at protecting lives and property across the state.

The Oyo State Police Command reiterated its resolve to sustain intelligence-driven operations and strengthen collaboration with members of the public in tackling crime and criminality.