The police command in Oyo State has arrested three suspected armed robbers and recovered a toy pistol during a patrol operation around Awolowo Road, Bodija, Ibadan.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement in Ibadan on Tuesday.

Mr Olayinka said that operatives attached to the Bodija Housing Division, on Monday at about 12.30 p.m., intercepted a Bajaj motorcycle while on routine stop-and-search duty along Awolowo Road, Bodija.

He said the motorcycle, with registration number BDJ 386 QH, was ridden by a 26-year-old man, conveying two pillion passengers, all residents of Gbaremu, Ibadan.

According to him, the interception, which was based on reasonable suspicion, led to a thorough search of the suspects and their belongings.

“In the course of the search, a toy pistol, concealed in a black bag, was recovered alongside six different mobile phones.

“This discovery heightened suspicion and provided reasonable grounds for their immediate arrest, as it suggested possible involvement in criminal activities,” he said.

Mr Olayinka said the suspects confessed to engaging in robbery of unsuspecting members of the public, dispossessing them of their valuables.

He added that their confessional statement provided useful leads and strengthened ongoing investigative efforts.

He further said the suspects had been taken into custody, and a comprehensive investigation commenced to determine the full extent of their criminal operations and possibly identify other accomplices.

Mr Olayinka said the Oyo State Commissioner of Police (CP), Abimbola Olugbenga, commended the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism.

He noted that the CP also solicited continued public support in providing credible and timely information.

(NAN)