The Ogun State police command confirmed the arrest of Shedrack Olawale Olayemi, 33, a notorious suspect wanted for armed robbery and rape. Olayemi was apprehended by officers of the Igbeba Division after being spotted near Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun.
He had been evading capture since July 2024, following a violent robbery where he and accomplices broke into a student residence, robbing female students of valuable items such as laptops, iPhones, and cash, and sexually assaulting one of the victims.
According to a statement by the state police spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, Olayemi was identified through intelligence efforts after attempting to blend into the Ijagun area.
“His identity was immediately confirmed by intelligence, and the police were contacted,” Odutola stated. The suspect was swiftly arrested after the tip-off.
The incident in July saw Olayemi and his gang target the female Royal Villa accommodation within the university grounds.
They reportedly stormed the premises at night, taking valuable possessions and subjecting one of the female students to sexual assault. Since the attack, Olayemi had been on the run.
The police have already begun a preliminary investigation and moved the suspect to the Igbeba police station for interrogation.
He will soon be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and prosecution.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Alamutu Abiodun Mustapha, has ordered an intensive manhunt for Olayemi’s accomplices. Mustapha also called on the Ijagun community to cooperate with the police by providing any credible information that could help in apprehending the rest of the criminal gang responsible for the attack.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation and has reassured the university community that efforts are being made to bring justice for the victims.
The police continue to appeal to residents to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement in ensuring public safety.
