Ahmed Akanbi, a Lagos-based businessman, has been arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic, over alleged links to multiple killings in Lagos.
The suspect was apprehended by operatives of the International Criminal Police Organisation after months of tracking across different countries.
Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Moshood Jimoh, confirmed the development on Monday in Lagos.
Jimoh said Akanbi was arrested on April 15 at a hotel in Cotonou after being on the run for months following his declaration as a wanted suspect.
“This case involves multiple murders, attempted murders, and destruction of lives and property spanning several years. The suspect, Ahmed Akanbi, was earlier declared wanted alongside other accomplices,” he said.
He identified the alleged accomplices as Safiu Fatai, Yusuf Ismaila, Soji Mascot and one Kenny, adding that Akanbi had been handed over to Nigerian authorities for further investigation.
“I can confirm to you that he has now been arrested by INTERPOL operatives in Benin Republic and handed over to INTERPOL Nigeria, and today handed to us at Zone 2 Command,” he said.
Jimoh said the case received renewed attention after a petition was submitted to the Inspector-General of Police, while preliminary findings linked Akanbi to killings in the Ojomu community in Lagos.
He added that some suspects already in custody had allegedly confessed to carrying out attacks on Akanbi’s instructions, claiming he financed the operations.
“Sheriff Ishola was murdered on April 18, 2023, while Prince Ademola Akinloye was killed on August 26, 2024,” he said.
He said both incidents occurred in the Eti-Osa area of Lagos and urged victims or witnesses with useful information to come forward.
“Victims should not be afraid. They can submit their petitions, and their identities will be adequately protected,” he said.
Commissioner of Police, INTERPOL, Fidelis Ogarabe, said the arrest was made possible through international collaboration between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
“Our counterparts in Benin Republic cooperated fully. After due processes, the suspect was handed over to our team and brought back to Nigeria,” he said.
Ogarabe added that items recovered from the suspect included travel documents, mobile phones and a vehicle.
