“The dark face of urban crime: gangs of thieves in action”
Today, an armed robbery case is making headlines in Ogun and Lagos States, Nigeria. The main suspect, nicknamed Seun, is said to have terrorized residents of the two regions by posing as an engineer repairing computers and phones before launching armed attacks.
During a press conference, the suspect confessed that everything changed when he met a friend named Bado, who introduced him to the world of organized crime. Their first operation took place in Abeokuta, a town where they robbed a two-story building. Seun admitted to climbing the fence to allow his accomplices to enter. When the thieves entered the building, a police officer on duty took refuge in the toilets. They took the opportunity to seize his weapon before leaving the scene.
According to the suspect, they also committed robberies in Oshodi, Ikorodu and Ifo area of Ogun, stealing phones, money and even a vehicle in Abeokuta. Before his arrest, Seun was said to have amassed the sum of N210,000 from the three burglaries he participated in.
Bitterly regretting his involvement in these criminal acts, the suspect begs for leniency from the authorities and promises never to turn to armed robbery again. He says he worked for a politician in Mowe, but felt abandoned, which led him to join the world of crime.
This story highlights the dilemmas and choices that can lead individuals down dark paths. It also highlights the importance of social reintegration to enable marginalized people to find a brighter future.