By Ganiyat Mumuni
The Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) , Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun has led a coordinated security operation to dismantle a suspected criminal hideout in the Morekete area of Oreta.
The operation resulted in the arrest of several suspects and the recovery of illicit substances and dangerous items.
The operation carried out by the council’s Joint Task Force (JTF) followed intelligence reports linking a cluster of shanties along the Igbogbo-Oreta Road corridor to alleged criminal activities, including drug-related offences and other anti-social behaviours.
During the operation, security operatives recovered various illicit substances suspected to include marijuana, codeine, crystal methamphetamine, and tramadol. Other items recovered include a bulletproof vest, an axe, and materials suspected to have been stolen.
Several suspects apprehended during the raid have been handed over to relevant security authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Speaking after the operation, Chairman Aroyewun described the discovery as a serious security concern stressing that his administration would not allow any part of the LCDA to become a safe haven for criminal elements.
“It is unfortunate that a place like this was allowed to evolve into a haven for criminality. What we found here goes beyond environmental nuisance; we discovered evidence of drug abuse, criminal gatherings, and activities capable of endangering innocent residents,” Aroyewun said.
The council chairman noted that the action was prompted by concerns raised by residents over incidents of robbery, burglary, theft, and other security challenges around the area.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to intelligence-driven security operations, adding that collaboration between residents, government, and security agencies remains crucial in maintaining peace and safety within the LCDA.
Aroyewun commended members of the Joint Task Force for their professionalism and dedication, while urging residents to continue providing credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing crime.
“The fight against crime cannot be left to security agencies alone. Community members have a vital role to play. When residents share information, it becomes easier to identify threats before they escalate,” he stated.
The council has commenced efforts to identify individuals connected to the structures used as hideouts and warned that anyone found supporting or facilitating criminal activities would face the consequences of the law.
