In a significant breakthrough, the Lagos State Police Command has apprehended 34-year-old Abubakar Iliyasu, the prime suspect linked to the gruesome murder of 65-year-old Mrs. Jane Okoye, who was attacked and robbed in her residence at Orile Iganmu on April 2, 2025. The suspect was tracked down and arrested in Kogi State, where he had been hiding since fleeing Lagos in the aftermath of the crime. Notably, the victim’s stolen Toyota Sienna was also recovered during the operation.
According to a statement by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, Iliyasu had been on the run since the attack that left the community in shock and mourning. He reportedly gained entry into the victim’s residence under false pretenses, robbed her of valuables, and inflicted severe injuries during the assault. Mrs. Okoye succumbed to her wounds days later at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), prompting an intensive manhunt.
Working on credible intelligence and in collaboration with security operatives in Kogi State, detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, were able to locate and arrest Iliyasu in a remote part of Kogi where he had been living under a false identity.
“The suspect did not resist arrest and has since been transferred to Lagos,” the police spokesperson said. “He is currently in custody and has begun cooperating with investigators. Preliminary interrogations suggest that he acted alone and had plans to sell the stolen vehicle before being apprehended.”
Family members of the deceased, who had earlier appealed to the police and public for help in finding the assailant, expressed relief at the arrest, describing it as the first step toward justice.
Residents of Orile Iganmu have also commended the police for what they termed a swift and professional response. Some have, however, called for heightened security in the area to prevent similar occurrences.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, has assured the public that the case will be thoroughly investigated and that the suspect will be prosecuted without delay. He also reiterated the command's commitment to pursuing justice for the victim and her grieving family.
More details are expected to emerge as investigations continue.
Tags
News