Lagos Police Arrest Three Suspected Syndicate Members Disguising as Security Operatives to Vandalise Luxury Vehicles
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a notorious criminal syndicate accused of disguising as security operatives to gain access into residential estates and vandalise luxury vehicles across the Lagos metropolis.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, disclosed this in a press statement on Wednesday, revealing that police detectives apprehended the suspects during an operation in the early hours of March 25, 2026.
According to the police chief, the suspects — Obinna Okeke, 27; Emmanuel Anyanwu, 38; and Joshua Nkemdirim, 31 — were arrested at about 4:00 a.m. following intelligence-led investigations by operatives of the command.
Jimoh explained that the trio allegedly belongs to a criminal syndicate notorious for disguising as security operatives by wearing fake security uniforms and carrying a modified Mercedes car jack designed to resemble a firearm. The tactic, he said, enabled them to gain access into various estates across Lagos.
Investigations revealed that the suspects targeted high-end vehicles parked within residential estates, particularly Toyota and luxury Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs).
The gang allegedly specialised in vandalising vehicles such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus LX 650, Mercedes-Benz, and other SUVs.
Police said the suspects focused on removing expensive automobile components including vehicle brain boxes, wiring systems, side mirrors, control devices, tapping glasses and other valuable parts which were later sold.
Items recovered from the suspects include several vehicle brain boxes and the modified Mercedes-Benz car jack used to intimidate security personnel.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to being members of a syndicate involved in the vandalism of vehicles within Lagos and surrounding areas.
The police commissioner noted that the suspects are currently assisting detectives with ongoing investigations, while efforts are being intensified to apprehend other members of the gang still at large.
He also urged residents, estate managers, and private security guards to remain vigilant and verify the identity of individuals claiming to be security operatives before granting them access into residential premises.
Jimoh assured the public that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to intensify operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.
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