Quick Summary:
Zone 2 Police Command arrests and parades four suspected interstate robbers led by Francis Fidelis, recovering vehicles, jewellery, and valuables worth over N3 billion.
The Zone 2 Police Command has paraded four suspected members of an alleged interstate robbery syndicate following their arrest in Lagos.
The suspects were identified as Francis Fidelis (34), Hassan Atahiru (30), Ikpi Johnson Ibiang, and Aishatu Seni Ali.
Police authorities said the group was led by Fidelis, believed to be based in Port Harcourt, who allegedly coordinated operations across multiple states.
Investigation Triggered by Residents’ Petition
According to the police, the investigation began after a petition submitted on February 4, 2026, by the Parkview Residents Association, Ikoyi, to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2.
The petition detailed repeated burglary incidents within the estate, prompting the Zonal Anti-Piracy Unit to launch a discreet investigation.
Acting on intelligence, operatives tracked the suspects to a short-let apartment known as George Residence on Femi-Pedro Street, Parkview Estate, where Fidelis and his accomplices were arrested on February 6, 2026.
The operation, which extended into the early hours of February 7, led to the recovery of vehicles, jewellery, and valuables estimated at over N3 billion.
How the Syndicate Operated
Police alleged that Fidelis relocated to Lagos in 2025, renting short-term apartments in gated communities to gain unrestricted access to targeted estates.
He reportedly carried out robberies wearing hooded clothing and face masks, and was armed with weapons during operations.
Investigators said Fidelis confessed to multiple robberies in Parkview Estate, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lekki Phase 1, and other parts of Lagos Island.
His confession allegedly led to the arrest of Hassan Atahiru, described as a receiver of stolen items.
Atahiru reportedly admitted to buying gold and diamond jewellery, gold bars, designer wristwatches, and other valuables from Fidelis since 2024.
He allegedly moved stolen items to Cotonou, Benin Republic, through his brother to evade detection, and used part of the proceeds to purchase a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE worth N74 million for Fidelis.
Recovered Items
Recovered exhibits include:
- A dark grey, unregistered Mercedes-Benz GLE (chassis no. 4JGED6EB7JA094974)
- A Lexus RX 350 (registration no. AB451KR)
- A plastic pistol, five crowbars, pliers, screwdrivers, a kitchen knife, an adjustable spanner, face masks, hooded clothing, and gloves
- Seven mobile phones, four iPads, and numerous pieces of jewellery — earrings, wristwatches, rings, necklaces, and bracelets
- Two backpacks with multiple compartments
Police: Investigation Still Ongoing
Speaking during the parade, Deputy Commissioner of Police Adamu Bello Mohammed, representing AIG Adegoke Fayoade, said the investigation was still ongoing.
He added that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.