Ex-convict Linked to Allen Avenue Jewellery Robbery Arrested
The 28-year-old suspect, an indigene of Akwa Ibom State, was tracked and apprehended by operatives of the Command at his hideout in Epe on Friday, September 19, 2025, at about 2:00 p.m.
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested one John Samuel, described as a notorious armed robbery kingpin, hired assassin, and convicted murderer, responsible for the August 18 armed attack and gold jewellery robbery at Allen Avenue, Ikeja.
The 28-year-old suspect, an indigene of Akwa Ibom State, was tracked and apprehended by operatives of the Command at his hideout in Epe on Friday, September 19, 2025, at about 2:00 p.m.
Samuel, who was released from prison barely a month ago after serving a six-year sentence for armed robbery, returned to criminal activity almost immediately.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Deputy Police Public Relations Officer DSP Babasayi B. Oluseyi disclosed that Samuel shot and wounded businessman Gbenga Obama during the daylight robbery, making away with an expensive gold necklace and other valuables.
CCTV footage from the scene showed the suspect firing an English pistol before fleeing on a motorcycle with an accomplice. The victim, who sustained serious injuries, has since been treated and discharged.
However, during interrogation, the suspect confessed to selling the stolen jewellery for ₦4 million, far below its actual market value.
The statement read, “CCTV footage of the 18/08/2025 incident obtained, clearly captured the suspect when he fired at the victim with English pistol, before dispossessing him of his gold necklace jewelry while his accomplice waited on a motorcycle for their escape.
“The victim, who sustained serious gunshot wounds during the attack, has since been treated and discharged.
“The suspect, Samuel John, confessed to selling the stolen jewelry for ₦4 million, far below its actual value. The Lagos State Police Command is currently intensifying efforts to arrest other members of his gang and bring them to justice. They will all be prosecuted on completion of investigation.”
According to the statement, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commended the operatives for their “gallantry” in arresting the suspect, assuring that a discreet investigation is ongoing.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of residents and urged Lagosians to go about their lawful activities without fear, while warning criminals that there is no hiding place for them in Lagos.
Read Also: VIDEO: Man Kills Three Men With AK-47 For Allegedly Using His Gun For Robbery
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