Lagos Police Arrest Most Wanted Killer, Wasiu “Olori Eso” Akinwande

In what has been described as one of the most significant security breakthroughs in recent Lagos history, operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested the state’s most wanted criminal, Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Eso, a 44-year-old notorious hired killer and cult kingpin.

The suspect, who has been on the police radar for over a decade, was captured in a covert operation code-named “Silence, Speed and Surprise” by the Command’s Tactical Squad. He was apprehended at his hideout in the Agbado area of Ogun State following several failed attempts in the past.

Akinwande has long been a symbol of terror in the Mushin area of Lagos and surrounding communities. He is accused of masterminding numerous high-profile killings, kidnappings, cult-related murders, and armed robberies dating back to 2009. According to the police, his brutal operations have instilled widespread fear and caused untold trauma for many families in the state.

Following his arrest, police operatives raided his residence in Mushin where a shocking cache of weapons and incriminating materials were uncovered. Items recovered include:

• Two (2) AK-47 rifles
• One (1) K2 assault rifle
• One (1) Red Ryder rifle
• Three (3) pump action rifles
• Two (2) locally made single-barrel pistols
• Five (5) magazines
• Fifty-seven (57) live cartridges
• Seventy (70) rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition
• Twenty-seven (27) rounds of 9mm ammunition
• One (1) expended 5.56mm ammunition
• One (1) dagger
• Three (3) walkie-talkies
• Nine (9) international passports belonging to various individuals

Four families have already come forward to identify Akinwande as the perpetrator of the gruesome killings of their loved ones, lending credence to police claims of his extensive and violent criminal history.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, while addressing the press, praised the bravery and coordination of the officers involved in the operation. He described the arrest as “a turning point in the fight against violent crime in Lagos State.”

“The arrest of this dreaded cult leader and the seizure of these weapons sends a clear message—Lagos will not be a safe haven for criminals,” CP Jimoh said. “We are committed to restoring peace and protecting lives. Justice will be served.”

He also revealed that the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), has been tasked to head a special investigative team to widen the probe and apprehend other accomplices linked to Akinwande’s gang.

The police have assured residents that Akinwande is in custody under tight security and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The Lagos Police Command has urged the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security efforts by reporting suspicious activities promptly.

The Command reiterated its commitment to making Lagos a safer city for all, stating that the fight against crime will remain relentless and uncompromising.