In a groundbreaking operation that reads like the climax of a crime thriller, the Lagos State Police Command has successfully arrested one of the most dangerous and elusive criminals in the state’s history—44-year-old Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Eso. The suspected hired assassin, cult kingpin, and terror mastermind had led a blood-soaked reign of violence across Mushin and surrounding communities for over a decade.
Spokesperson for the Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed in a statement that the arrest was made on Friday, June 20, 2025, during a meticulously executed sting operation code-named Silence, Speed, and Surprise, spearheaded by the Command’s Tactical Squad.
Described by authorities as “the most wanted and feared suspect in Lagos in recent memory,” Akinwande’s capture marks a significant milestone in the state’s war on violent crime and gang terrorism.
The operation to bring down Akinwande had been in the works for years. His trail of blood and chaos stretched from 2009 through 2024, encompassing a litany of gruesome crimes including murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion, and countless cult-related killings. He was finally tracked to a concealed hideout in Agbado, Ogun State, where he was arrested after narrowly escaping several previous attempts by law enforcement.
“The suspect’s reign of terror had left countless families devastated, entire communities traumatized, and a permanent scar on the psyche of Mushin residents,” the statement read. “Despite operating under numerous aliases and frequently relocating across state lines, the Lagos State Police never relented in its pursuit of justice.”
What the Police Found Will Shock You
Following his arrest, a tactical sweep of Akinwande’s residence in Mushin revealed a chilling arsenal of deadly weapons and incriminating items believed to have been used in his gang’s bloody operations. Among the recovered items were:
2 AK-47 rifles
1 K2 assault rifle
1 Red Ryder rifle
3 pump-action rifles
2 locally-made single-barrel pistols
5 loaded magazines
57 live cartridges
70 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition
27 rounds of 9mm ammunition
1 expended 5.56mm round
1 dagger
3 walkie-talkies
9 international passports belonging to different individuals
Police believe the passports may be linked to victims or potential human trafficking operations.
In a tragic yet validating twist, four grieving families have already stepped forward, identifying Akinwande as the man responsible for the brutal killings of their children and loved ones. Their testimonies, along with forensic evidence, are expected to play a key role in building the airtight case prosecutors are now preparing.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, hailed the Tactical Squad’s bravery and precision, describing the arrest as “a landmark achievement in our mission to reclaim Lagos from the grip of violent crime.” He has also ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to broaden the investigation and bring all accomplices to justice.
CP Jimoh reassured Lagosians that their safety remains the Command’s top priority and urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperative.
“Wasiu Akinwande is now in custody under tight security and will face the full wrath of the law. Let this be a clear warning to others who believe they can hold our communities hostage with violence—your time is up,” he stated.
The Command concluded by encouraging residents to continue reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police stations, noting that public cooperation remains a critical weapon in the fight against crime.
With the fall of Olori Eso, a long chapter of fear may finally be closing in Mushin. But the police warn—the war is far from over.
PIONEER NEWS 