Police catch suspected robber, recover stolen bike in Oyo

The Oyo State Police have caught a suspected armed robber and found a stolen motorcycle in Ibadan. This happened after a quick response to an emergency call.

A statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the incident took place around 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2026. They received reliable information from a member of the public. A commercial motorcyclist had been attacked and robbed of his motorcycle at Adeniji Estate, Apata, Ibadan.

The victim, Muhammadu Kamilu, was hit with an iron hammer by a passenger who took his Bajaj Boxer motorcycle. “Acting quickly on the information, officers from the Command Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) were sent to the scene. They arrested the suspect, Shafiu Nuhu, and recovered the stolen Bajaj Boxer motorcycle with registration number AJW 842 QU, along with the hammer used in the attack,” the statement said.

The police reported that Kamilu got injuries during the attack. A good Samaritan, Nathaniel Ibrahim, also got hurt while trying to help Kamilu.

“Both men were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment,” the police added.

The police said the suspect confessed during questioning. He claimed he worked alone, targeting motorcyclists in Ibadan. “Further questioning of the suspect gave us useful information. He admitted to being a lone robber who attacks and robs commercial motorcyclists in Ibadan and nearby areas,” the statement continued.

The police are still investigating to check if the suspect was involved in other crimes and to find more evidence related to his activities.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, praised the residents for their quick action that helped in the operation.

“The Commissioner commends the alertness, bravery, and quick action of the good Samaritan, as well as the fast sharing of reliable information by the public. This helped the operation succeed,” the statement said.

The police commissioner urged residents to stay aware of their surroundings and keep working with the police by reporting any suspicious people or activities.

The police promised to keep fighting crime. They said they “remain dedicated to protecting lives and property. They will continue to use smart and proactive policing to identify, catch, and bring criminals to justice.”