By John Dike, Osogbo
A high-profile suspect who had been on the wanted list of multiple security agencies in Osun State has been apprehended following a dramatic gun battle with security operatives in Ilesa.
The suspect, a 42-year-old male, was arrested alongside one of his accomplices during a coordinated operation by the Osun State Amotekun Corps in the Isokun area of Ilesa, at about 5:59 p.m. on Saturday.
According to reports reaching our correspondent, the arrest was the result of extensive tracking efforts and discreet investigations carried out by the operatives.
It was gathered that upon arrival at the suspect’s hideout, Amotekun operatives came under heavy gunfire from Awe’s gang, who allegedly made frantic efforts to resist arrest. A fierce gun battle reportedly ensued.
Despite the confrontation, the operatives, using strategic decoys and superior tactical maneuvering, overpowered the gang and successfully apprehended the kingpin along with one other suspect. However, several members of the gang reportedly escaped and are currently being trailed by security forces.
During the raid, operatives recovered hard drugs and assorted charms, heightening suspicion of the gang’s involvement in ritual activities, in addition to kidnapping and murder.
Confirming the incident the Amotekun Corps spokesman in Osun State, Mr. Yesuf Idowu Abass, said the suspect had long been on the radar of various security agencies due to his alleged involvement in several heinous crimes across the state.
He disclosed that the gun battle lasted over an hour before “nemesis caught up with the suspect and one of his gang members,” while others managed to escape.
Abass commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, adding that the arrest is a major breakthrough in the fight against crime in the state.
“The suspect will be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations. We are also on the trail of the fleeing members of the gang and assure the public that they will soon be arrested and brought to justice,” he said.
