Suspects snatch bag containing fufu, stew

The Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command says it has arrested three suspected teenage robbers for snatching a handbag containing wraps of fufu and beef stew.

The RRS said the suspects specialised in snatching valuables, using motorcycles, aka okada-snatch-and-run.

It was gathered that the suspects – Daniel Dali, 19; Emmanuel Ashaolu, 17; and Bright Ikenna Bright, 17 – were arrested on Friday at 10.48pm in the Ajegunle area by a team of RRS men on patrol.

Dali, an okada rider from Cotonu, and Ashaolu were said to have snatched a handbag from a yet-to-be identified lady.

However, unknown to them, the bag contained two wraps of fufu and stew.

It was learnt that their victim shouted for help, which prompted the RRS team to pursue the duo, leading to the arrest of Ashaolu, while Dali escaped.

The RRS commander, Tunji Disu, said the RRS team mobilised a decoy team, who combed the area, leading to the arrest of Dali, the okada rider, and Ikenna.

He said, “At the suspects’ apartment, two other roommates were arrested, but were later released after cross-examination by RRS officials.”

However, Dali said he started the business of okada-snatch-and-run in April 2015.

He said, “My mother’s death forced me into robbery. My mother gave me everything I wanted. After her death, I had no helper.

“Bright and I have been to four operations. In one of our outings, we snatched a recharge card worth N35,000. He sold it and gave me only N5,000. We don’t use guns; we have never operated with guns. We snatch valuables and escape on an okada.

“We have our routes. They are Boundary, Mile 2, New Roundabout, Wilma and Ajegunle. The okada we use was bought for me by a lady. I pay her in instalment. I have paid N75,000 out of N300,000.”

Ikenna said he had operated with the gang seven times.

He said, “Several boys do this business in Ajegunle. I know of a team, which live in different hotels, sleep in day time and operate at night. This is the only job they do to survive.”

The state police spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos, said the suspects had been transferred to the State Department of Criminal Investigation.

She said the suspects had given information that would lead to the arrest of more members of the gang.