By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo
A 53-year-old suspected local arms manufacturer, Kareem Fatia,has been arrested by the Ondo State Police Command in Ile-Oluji, as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate the proliferation of illegal firearms and curb violent crimes across the state.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the suspect was apprehended on October 15, 2025, following credible intelligence received by detectives attached to the Yaba Divisional Headquarters in Ondo.
During the operation at Eyingun-Owode area of Ile-Oluji, the police recovered three single-barrel guns, three Dane guns, and one unfinished gun barrel hidden in a bush behind the suspect’s residence.
The police spokesperson added that two other individuals were also arrested in connection with the case, as investigations continue to determine possible links between the suspects and violent crimes within the state, as well as to identify buyers of the illegal firearms.
The principal suspect and the recovered exhibits are to be transferred to the Command’s Monitoring Unit for further investigation and possible prosecution.
CP Lawal reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for the possession, manufacture, or sale of illegal firearms, warning those engaged in such criminal acts to desist or be ready to face the full wrath of the law.