In what security officials are hailing as one of the most significant takedowns in Lagos State’s recent criminal history, the Lagos State Police Command has apprehended the state’s most wanted hired assassin and gang leader, Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Eso.
Akinwande, aged 44, was picked up by operatives of the Command’s Tactical Squad during a covert operation codenamed Silence, Speed and Surprise in the Agbado area of Ogun State on Friday, June 20, 2025.
His arrest follows years of manhunts and failed attempts to capture him across different states, owing to his notoriety and ability to elude law enforcement.
Described by the police as a serial killer, gang leader, and cultist kingpin, Akinwande is believed to have led multiple gangs responsible for a wave of killings, kidnappings, and armed robberies, particularly in the Mushin area of Lagos and its environs.
His name has reportedly featured in several high-profile murder investigations dating back to 2009, with survivors and victims’ families living in perpetual fear.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, operatives also raided Akinwande’s residence in Mushin, where they recovered a large cache of arms and incriminating items.
“We recovered a frightening arsenal from the suspect’s house,” Hundeyin said. “The items include two AK-47 rifles, one K2 assault rifle, one Red Ryder rifle, three pump-action rifles, two locally made single-barrel pistols, five magazines, 57 live cartridges, 70 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition, 27 rounds of 9mm ammunition, one expended 5.56 round, a dagger, three walkie-talkies, and nine international passports belonging to different individuals.”
Police investigations suggest that the weapons were used by Akinwande and his gang during various attacks and operations across the state.
The Command said the suspect admitted to owning the arms and using them in his operations. His arrest, the statement noted, is expected to unravel more links to an elaborate network of criminal operations that have left a trail of grief and trauma in many homes.
The Command also confirmed that four families have already come forward to identify Akinwande as the man behind the killings of their children and wards.
“His criminal activities instilled fear and caused unimaginable pain in many families,” Hundeyin added. “For over a decade, he moved from one state to another, escaping arrest, but the Command remained determined in its pursuit of justice.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to lead a team of specially selected detectives to expand the investigation and bring all his accomplices to justice.
“This arrest sends a clear message,” said CP Jimoh. “Lagos is not and will never be a haven for violent criminals. We are committed to dismantling every network that threatens the peace and safety of our residents.”
For over a decade, Akinwande’s reign of terror was marked by bloodshed, extortion, and unprovoked violence, with several victims never getting justice. His network reportedly spanned several communities, with informants, foot soldiers, and enforcers acting on his orders.
The Lagos State Police Command has vowed to continue its clampdown on criminal syndicates and has reassured residents of their safety. CP Jimoh commended the officers involved in the arrest and recovery operation, noting that their bravery and resilience are commendable.
“I urge all residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,” he said. “We need public support to rid our streets of criminals like this.”
Akinwande remains in police custody under tight security and will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.
