By Efe Onodjae
A Lagos-based businessman who had been on the run over allegations of multiple murders and destruction of property has been arrested in Benin Republic and extradited to Nigeria by the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL).
Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Lagos, AIG Moshood Jimoh, confirmed the arrest during a press briefing at the Zonal Headquarters in Lagos, on Monday, where the suspect was formally handed over to Nigerian authorities.
Jimoh explained that Akanbi, 38, was apprehended on April 15, 2026, at an undisclosed hotel in Cotonou, Benin Republic, after months of tracking by international Police operatives. He noted that the suspect had been on the run across different countries, “as reflected in his international passport, since he was declared wanted in connection with a string of violent crimes in Lagos State.
According to AIG Jimoh, “This case involves multiple murders, attempted murders, and destruction of lives and property spanning several years. The suspect, Ahmed Akanbi, was earlier declared wanted alongside other accomplices, Safiu Fatai, Yusuf Ismaila, Soji Mascot, and one Kenny.
“I can confirm to you that he has now been arrested by INTERPOL operatives in Benin Republic and handed over to INTERPOL Nigeria, and today handed to us at Zone 2 command. Investigations will be concluded before he is charged to court.”
Jimoh explained that the case gained renewed attention following a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, which prompted a fresh and discreet investigation into the killings in the Ojomu community of Lagos.
He added that preliminary findings revealed that some of the arrested accomplices had confessed to carrying out the killings on the instructions of the suspect, who allegedly financed the operations.
Providing details of the incidents, the AIG said, “Sheriff Ishola was murdered on April 18, 2023, while Prince Ademola Akinloye was killed on August 26, 2024, both in the Eti-Osa axis of Lagos, in a coordinated and premeditated attacks”
He explained that previous Commissioners of Police in Lagos had made significant progress in the investigation, noting that new evidence later emerged linking the suspect more directly to the crimes.
Jimoh also cautioned against misinformation and attempts to politicise the case, insisting that the police would ensure justice is served.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring that no individual, regardless of status, escapes justice. We will follow due process and ensure that all those involved are prosecuted,” he said.
In addition, the AIG called on individuals affected by the suspect’s alleged activities to come forward with evidence to aid ongoing investigations. He urged victims who may have suffered losses, including destruction of property, criminal interference with investments, personal harm, or attempted murder, to report their cases without fear.
According to him, complaints can be submitted directly to his office, the AIG in charge of Special Operations, or Commissioners of Police in Ogun and Lagos Police commands. He assured that all reported cases would be thoroughly investigated.
Describing such criminal acts as detrimental to national development, Jimoh said Akanbi and his cohorts undermined government efforts to attract investment and support small and medium-scale enterprises, as well as hinder housing development initiatives. He reassured the public that the identities of complainants would be protected.
“Victims should not be afraid. They can submit their petitions, and their identities will be adequately protected,” he added.
Also speaking, Commissioner of Police, INTERPOL, Fidelis Ogarabe, said the suspect’s arrest was made possible through international collaboration.
He explained that INTERPOL operatives in Nigeria received intelligence about the suspect’s location in Cotonou and promptly deployed a team to effect his arrest.
“Our counterparts in Benin Republic cooperated fully. After due processes, the suspect was handed over to our team and brought back to Nigeria. We have now transferred him to the AIG in charge of the case for continuation of investigation,” he said.
Ogarabe added that items recovered from the suspect, including travel documents, mobile phones, and a luxury vehicle, would aid ongoing investigations.
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