The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a suspected serial rapist and armed robber, Adedayo Ben Adegbola, a commercial taxi driver whose image recently went viral on social media following multiple reports of rape, assault, and robbery targeting female passengers across Lagos State.
According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Abimbola Adebisi, the suspect was apprehended on October 31, 2025, at about 9:40 a.m. after an intensive and discreet operation conducted by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba. The arrest reportedly came after weeks of coordinated intelligence gathering, surveillance, and collaboration with members of the public who had circulated Adegbola’s photograph on social media.
The statement revealed that several victims had identified Adegbola as the driver who allegedly subjected them to rape, indecent assault, physical harm, and robbery after posing as a commercial taxi operator. He was said to have lured unsuspecting women who boarded his vehicle at various locations within Lagos, then diverted to isolated areas where he attacked and dispossessed them of their valuables.
His arrest followed widespread public outrage after numerous women came forward online to share similar experiences, leading to viral posts that drew the attention of law enforcement authorities. The police noted that the case had become a major priority for the Command due to the scale of the offences and the emotional trauma inflicted on victims.
The suspect’s operational vehicle, a red Toyota Corolla with registration number JJJ 226 HT, which he reportedly used to perpetrate the crimes, has been recovered and secured as evidence. Forensic analysis of the vehicle and other items recovered from the suspect is currently underway to support the investigation and prosecution process.
“Following strict directives from the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohunnare Jimoh, detectives of the SCID commenced a detailed and painstaking investigation into complaints from victims of the suspect’s heinous acts,” the statement read. “The relentless efforts of the Police Joint Investigation Teams resulted in the arrest of this vicious and notorious suspect who has been terrorizing female passengers in the state.”
The police confirmed that Adegbola is currently in custody and cooperating with investigators. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend possible accomplices linked to the series of assaults and robberies. Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect may have operated in multiple parts of the city, including Ikeja, Surulere, Yaba, and Lekki, often targeting passengers late at night.
The Command also appealed to members of the public, particularly other victims of Adegbola’s assaults, to come forward with information that could aid the investigation. The police assured that all victims’ identities and testimonies would be treated with utmost confidentiality to ensure their safety and dignity throughout the legal process.
In his remarks, Commissioner of Police, CP Olohunnare Jimoh, reaffirmed the Command’s determination to ensure justice for survivors and maintain the safety of residents across Lagos.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains resolute in its duty to protect all residents and ensure that justice is served,” Jimoh said. “We understand the trauma experienced by victims of gender-based violence and will continue to deploy every available resource to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. We urge Lagosians to remain vigilant, avoid unregistered taxis, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.”
The police further pledged to provide periodic updates as the investigation progresses, emphasizing that the Command will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminals posing as legitimate taxi operators. The statement concluded with a renewed assurance of the Command’s unwavering commitment to public safety, justice, and the protection of women’s rights.
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