The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 53-year-old man, Kareem Fatia, suspected to be an illegal manufacturer of firearms in the Ile-Oluji area of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Olusola Ayanlade, the suspect was apprehended on October 15, 2025, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation conducted by detectives from the Yaba Divisional Headquarters in Ondo City.
“Acting on credible intelligence, our operatives stormed an area known as Eyingun-Owode, where the suspect was arrested,” the statement read.
A search of the premises and its surroundings reportedly led to the discovery of a cache of locally made weapons. Items recovered include:
Three single-barrel guns, Three Dane guns, and One unfinished gun barrel found concealed in a nearby bush behind the suspect’s residence.
SP Ayanlade disclosed that Fatia confessed to fabricating and selling firearms illegally, providing useful information that helped the police uncover further details about his operations.
“During the course of investigation, two additional suspects were also arrested for their alleged involvement in the crime,” the PPRO added.
The Command said investigations are ongoing to determine whether the syndicate is linked to violent crimes across Ondo State and to identify possible buyers and criminal networks connected to their activities.
SP Ayanlade further confirmed that the prime suspect and the recovered exhibits will be transferred to the Command’s Monitoring Unit for discreet investigation and subsequent prosecution.
“Preliminary investigations have been concluded. The Command remains resolute in its efforts to rid the state of illegal arms and ensure the safety of lives and property,” he stated.
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