Lagos Police Capture Most Wanted Cult Kingpin, Wasiu “Olori Eso” Akinwande
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 44-year-old suspected hired killer and gang leader, Wasiu Akinwande, alias Olori Eso, who is believed to be behind years of violent crimes in Mushin and surrounding areas.
The arrest, confirmed by Police Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin on Friday, June 20, 2025, is being hailed as a major milestone in the command’s crackdown on criminal syndicates across Lagos.
Special Operation ‘Silence, Speed, and Surprise’ Leads to High-Profile Arrest
According to an official statement obtained by thewatch.ng, the suspect was apprehended in Agbado, Ogun State, during a covert police operation code-named Silence, Speed, and Surprise.
“Wasiu Akinwande, aka Olori Eso—a 44-year-old notorious hired killer, gang leader, and cult kingpin was successfully trailed and arrested by the Command’s Tactical Squad after years of evading capture,” the statement said.
The operation also led to the recovery of a massive cache of arms and incriminating items, signaling the scale and coordination of Akinwande’s criminal enterprise.
Recovered Weapons and Evidence from Mushin Hideout
Police disclosed that a raid on Akinwande’s residence in Mushin resulted in the recovery of:
2 AK-47 rifles
1 K2 assault rifle
1 Red Ryder rifle
3 pump-action rifles
2 locally-made single-barrel pistols
5 magazines
57 live cartridges
70 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition
27 rounds of 9mm ammunition
1 expended 5.56mm round
1 dagger
3 walkie-talkies
9 international passports belonging to various individuals
Police believe these weapons were used in armed robberies, cult clashes, kidnappings, and targeted killings across Lagos State.
A Reign of Terror from 2009 to 2024
Akinwande, once dubbed Lagos’ most feared gang leader, had allegedly led multiple violent operations from 2009 to 2024. His criminal record includes:
Coordinated cult-related killings
Multiple armed robberies
Kidnappings across Mushin and surrounding communities
Terrorizing entire neighborhoods, leaving victims’ families traumatized
Despite frequently changing locations and states to evade capture, the Lagos State Police Command maintained relentless pressure, culminating in this high-profile arrest.
Four Families Identify Him as Their Children’s Killer
So far, four grieving families have stepped forward to identify Akinwande as the killer of their children and loved ones. Police have promised a full investigation and prosecution of all those involved.
The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has been tasked with leading an expanded investigation, with the Commissioner of Police directing a team of elite detectives to track down every suspect linked to Akinwande’s gang network.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Public Safety
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, praised the Tactical Squad for their bravery and reassured Lagos residents of the Command’s dedication to keeping the city safe.
“The arrest of Wasiu Akinwande marks a pivotal step in our mission to eradicate violent crime in Lagos. We urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity promptly,” Jimoh said.
He also emphasized that Olori Eso remains in tight police custody and will face the full force of the law.
Call to Action for Public Cooperation
As investigations continue, the Lagos State Police Command is urging members of the public to:
Report suspicious activities promptly
Provide timely and credible information
Cooperate with law enforcement in restoring peace and order
The Command reiterated its commitment to making Lagos a no-go zone for criminals and ensuring a secure environment for both residents and visitors.
