Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a notorious armed robber, hired assassin, and suspected murderer, identified as John Samuel, a 28-year-old man from Akwa Ibom State. The suspect was tracked and apprehended on Friday, September 19, at his hideout in Epe, Lagos, following an intensive manhunt by police operatives.
According to a statement released by the command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, the suspect had only recently regained his freedom after serving a six-year jail term for armed robbery. Despite his incarceration, Samuel allegedly returned to violent crime with renewed brutality, becoming one of the most feared criminals operating within Lagos metropolis.
The police report revealed that on August 18, 2025, Samuel brazenly attacked and shot a businessman, identified as Gbenga Obama, in broad daylight at Gbajobi Street, Allen Avenue, Ikeja. The assailant dispossessed his victim of an expensive gold necklace and other valuables before fleeing the scene with his accomplice, who was waiting on a motorcycle.
CCTV footage obtained from the scene of the incident reportedly showed the suspect armed with an English pistol. In the video, Samuel could be seen shooting his victim at close range before snatching the jewelry, underscoring his reputation for shooting victims before robbing them. The victim, who sustained serious gunshot wounds, was rushed to the hospital, where he received treatment and has since been discharged.
DSP Oluseyi explained that Samuel confessed during interrogation to having sold the stolen necklace for ₦4 million, a price far below its actual market value. The police spokesperson further disclosed that the command is intensifying efforts to apprehend other members of Samuel’s criminal network who remain at large.
“John Samuel, an ex-convict, is vicious and notorious for armed robbery, assassination, and murder of some of his victims. He was released recently after serving a six-year jail term for capital offence of armed robbery. After his release, he returned to crime and criminality with even more viciousness. He is notorious for shooting at victims before dispossessing them of their valuables,” Oluseyi stated.
He further emphasized that once investigations are concluded, Samuel and his accomplices will face full prosecution in court.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohudare Jimoh, has commended the operatives for their gallantry and commitment that led to the successful arrest. He assured Lagos residents that the command remains resolute in its mission to rid the state of violent criminals and ensure public safety.
“The Commissioner of Police praises the bravery of the officers involved in the operation. He assures Lagosians that discreet investigation is ongoing and the suspect, alongside his collaborators, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” the statement added.
The arrest has sparked relief among residents of Ikeja and other parts of Lagos, many of whom have expressed concerns over the rising spate of violent robberies in recent months. The case also highlights the challenges of recidivism, as many ex-convicts return to crime shortly after serving their sentences. Security experts have repeatedly called for stronger rehabilitation programs within Nigeria’s prison system to reduce the likelihood of repeat offences.
John Samuel’s arrest comes as part of a broader crackdown on violent crime by the Lagos State Police Command. In recent weeks, the command has carried out several successful operations against cultists, armed robbers, and kidnappers across the state. Authorities say these efforts are intended to reassure residents and deter would-be criminals from testing the resolve of law enforcement.
For many Lagosians, the swift capture of Samuel sends a strong message that violent offenders will not be allowed to operate with impunity. However, questions remain about the whereabouts of his accomplices and the broader network of criminals who may still be active in the city. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest station.
As investigations continue, the arrest of John Samuel is being hailed as a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crime in Lagos. With his track record of brutality and disregard for human life, authorities believe the streets of Lagos will be safer with him behind bars once again.
SEE VIDEO
