The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two men over the alleged possession of 250 live cartridges in a fresh crackdown on the illegal circulation of arms and ammunition across the state.
The suspects, identified as Ganiyu Sodiq, 35, and Salaudeen Sheriff, 23, were apprehended by police operatives on June 10, 2026, at Budo Pako in the Oke-Oyan axis following intelligence-driven operations.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the arrests resulted from credible intelligence gathering and sustained surveillance conducted by officers of the command.
According to the police, a total of 250 live cartridges were recovered from the suspects during the operation.
Investigators disclosed that preliminary findings showed the suspects were unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for possessing the ammunition.
The command further revealed that early investigations pointed to possible involvement by the suspects in the illegal trafficking and distribution of ammunition to criminal groups operating within Oyo State and beyond.
Police authorities said efforts were ongoing to uncover the wider network behind the alleged illicit trade.
Investigators are currently pursuing intelligence leads to identify accomplices, determine the source of the ammunition, and establish its intended destination.
The suspects remain in custody and are expected to face prosecution upon the completion of investigations.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbemiga, reiterated the command’s resolve to combat the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition, describing the trend as a major contributor to violent crimes.
He assured residents that the police would continue to employ all lawful means to identify, apprehend and prosecute individuals involved in criminal activities across the state.
Olugbemiga also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community participation remains vital to sustaining the fight against crime and enhancing public safety.
