Amotekun Arrests Two Suspected Highway Robbers on Ilesa-Ibadan Expressway in Osun
Operatives of the Western Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, have successfully apprehended two suspected members of a highway robbery gang during a late-night patrol operation along the Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway in Osun State. The arrest occurred at approximately 11:35 p.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026, as the suspects attempted to rob a commercial vehicle transporting goods from Ibadan.
Details of the Arrest and Suspects
The suspects have been identified as Chimar Eze, aged 29, and Sunday Okori, aged 41. Both individuals are natives of Ebonyi State but were residing in Mowe, Ogun State, at the time of their arrest. According to a statement issued by Yusuf Idowu Abass, the Public Relations Officer of the Osun Amotekun Corps, the suspects and two other accomplices had allegedly laid an ambush along the highway with the intention of intercepting the commercial vehicle.
However, the driver of the targeted vehicle managed to escape the trap and promptly alerted nearby Amotekun operatives who were conducting a routine patrol in the area. Responding swiftly to the distress call, the security personnel moved to the scene, causing the suspects to flee into the surrounding bush upon sighting them.
Pursuit and Confession
After a brief pursuit, two of the suspects, Chimar Eze and Sunday Okori, were arrested, while the remaining members of the gang managed to escape. During preliminary interrogation, the arrested suspects reportedly confessed to being part of a four-man robbery gang that has been operating along major highways since early 2025, specifically targeting motorists and commercial vehicles.
The suspects revealed that they turned to crime after their street hawking business in Lagos failed to generate meaningful income. They further disclosed that one of their accomplices, who is currently on the run, introduced them to highway robbery. Additionally, they explained that items stolen from motorists were typically transported to Lagos for sale.
Recovery of Stolen Items
The suspects later led operatives to their hideout, which was located in an uncompleted building inside a forest along the expressway. At this location, several items suspected to have been stolen were recovered. The recovered items include:
- Cartons of solar lights
- Various baby clothes
- Two tape measures
- A touch light
- Two long wooden sticks believed to have been used during their operations
Reaction from Amotekun Leadership
Reacting to the development, the Corps Commander of the Osun Amotekun Corps, High Chief Dr. Adekunle Omoyele, commended the Ilesa Area Command operatives for their swift response and professionalism. He particularly praised the team led by Area Commander Ilori John for their efforts in apprehending the suspects, who are believed to be responsible for a series of robbery incidents along the Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway.
Omoyele assured residents that the suspects would face the full weight of the law after the completion of ongoing investigations. He added that efforts are underway to track down the fleeing members of the gang. The Corps Commander also urged residents of Osun State to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
Next Steps and Legal Proceedings
The suspects are expected to be handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation and possible prosecution. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat crime and ensure the safety of travelers on major highways in the region.
