The Lagos State Police Command has successfully apprehended a 16-year-old boy, Solomon Ibiwoye, after he was caught with a firearm in the Ebute-Ero area of Lagos on Sunday.
EpeInsights learnt that the arrest was made possible through the alertness of residents, who noticed the teenager in possession of the weapon and quickly alerted local authorities.
Police spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend the public for their vigilance.
“Kudos to observant Lagosians who noticed 16-year-old Solomon Ibiwoye with a firearm and discreetly alerted Ebute-Ero Police Division,” he wrote in a social media post.
A follow-up search of the teenager’s home revealed a locally made firearm and an unspent cartridge, raising further concerns over the illegal possession of weapons by minors.
Hundeyin praised the operation, stating, “One more firearm off the streets,” while assuring the public that investigations are ongoing to uncover further details.
Though the police did not provide more information on how Ibiwoye obtained the weapon or whether he had any criminal affiliations.
Hundeyin stressed the importance of public involvement in keeping the community safe.
“See something, say something!” he urged, highlighting the significant role citizens play in combating crime.
This incident comes as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal firearms circulation in the state. The Lagos State Police Command has vowed to continue investigating the case thoroughly to ensure that all legal and criminal aspects are addressed.