BREAKING: Lagos Police Arrest Most Wanted Serial Killer in Major Security Breakthrough ; Lagos, Nigeria – June 20, 2025
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a man believed to be the most wanted serial killer in the state’s recent history, bringing a wave of relief to residents across multiple neighborhoods that had been gripped by fear.
In a brief statement released late Thursday evening, the Command described the suspect as a “notorious and cold-blooded individual” who had been linked to a series of brutal killings and disappearances spanning several months. Police officials say the arrest is the result of an extensive manhunt involving intelligence units, tactical teams, and community collaboration.
While full details have been reserved for an upcoming press briefing, a senior police officer who spoke under anonymity revealed that the suspect was tracked down to a hideout in the Ajegunle area, where he was apprehended after a short but intense standoff.
“This individual has been on our radar for quite some time. He is connected to multiple homicide investigations across Lagos mainland and suburbs, including several high-profile murder cases,” the source said.
The Trail of Violence
The arrest follows months of rising tension and widespread speculation surrounding a string of unsolved murders that had left many communities—particularly in Ikeja, Surulere, Mushin, and parts of Alimosho—on edge.
Victims, mostly young women and commercial workers, were reportedly found with disturbing signs of violence, often with no robbery or sexual motive, suggesting a deeper, more sinister pattern. The killer had earned various street monikers, including “The Phantom of Lagos,” due to his ability to vanish after each crime without leaving a trace.
Crime analysts and investigators had repeatedly described the suspect as “methodical, elusive, and highly dangerous.”
Public Reaction: Relief and Demands for Transparency
News of the arrest has sparked a massive reaction online, with Lagosians expressing both relief and curiosity. Hashtags such as #LagosSerialKiller and #JusticeForTheVictims began trending within hours as social media users demanded justice and full disclosure about the investigation.
“Finally, the monster has been caught,” tweeted one user. “But we need the full story. Who protected him all this time? How many lives were lost before this breakthrough?”
Another wrote:
“Thank you to the Lagos Police Command for staying on this case. We expect swift prosecution and no cover-up.”
Police to Brief Public on Friday
The Lagos Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Benjamin Hundeyin, announced via X (formerly Twitter) that a full press briefing will be held on Friday, June 21, to reveal the identity of the suspect, outline the charges, and give details of the investigation that led to the arrest.
He wrote:
“Yes, it’s true. The most wanted suspect linked to recent killings has been arrested. The Command is proud of the tireless effort by our men. Details to follow in tomorrow’s briefing.”
Calls for Broader Reform
Though the arrest has been hailed as a significant win for law enforcement, human rights advocates and security experts are warning that systemic issues still need urgent attention — including better surveillance, community policing, and faster response times.
“This arrest is a major milestone, but it shouldn’t overshadow the fact that the system allowed this individual to operate unchecked for months,” said Ngozi Ekeoma, a criminal justice reform advocate. “We need reform, not just relief.”
What Happens Next?
The suspect is currently in custody at a secure facility in Lagos, where he is reportedly undergoing intense interrogation. Authorities say charges ranging from multiple counts of homicide to obstruction of justice will be brought against him.
As the city waits for further details, the spotlight will now turn to the judicial system to ensure that justice is not only done — but seen to be done.