Oyo Police arrest syndicate over forgery and impersonation in Ibadan

Cityscope, Crime Diary

IBADAN, Nigeria, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The Oyo State Police Command has announced the arrest of ten suspects accused of impersonation and forgery in Ibadan, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation.

According to a statement by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer, the arrests were made on 9 April after actionable intelligence revealed that a syndicate was operating from a hideout in the Ogunpa area of Ibadan. The group allegedly specialised in forging official documents, certificates, and stamps belonging to government agencies, banks, and private organisations.

The suspects were identified as Mumini Akanbi (62), Quadri Muhammed (31), Salami Tajudeen (50), Oladipupo Hammed (45), Oladipupo Taiwo (40), Olorunosebi Kazzeem (42), Fatai Akanni (54), Alamu Kazeem (60), Olalekan Afeez (42), and Alex Olanrewaju (64). All have reportedly confessed to their involvement and are assisting investigators.

Search warrants executed at their operational bases led to the recovery of incriminating exhibits, including forged police character certificates, Nigeria Police Force CID stamps, Oyo State Government ministry stamps, and stamps belonging to commercial banks and private organisations.

The Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response, while also praising members of the public for providing timely intelligence. He emphasised the importance of community partnership in crime prevention and urged residents to remain vigilant.

The statement further highlighted the Inspector-General of Police’s “People-First Policing Strategy,” which prioritises community engagement and intelligence-led policing to enhance public safety nationwide.

The Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that all suspects will be charged in court upon conclusion. Citizens were advised to obtain documents only through official channels to avoid falling victim to fraudsters.

The Oyo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to rid the state of criminal activities and called on residents to continue supporting security agencies in sustaining peace and order.