Govt set to prosecute kidnappers of Oniba

Lagos State government, on Tuesday, commenced moves to charge the suspected kidnappers of the Oniba of Iba, Oba Goriola Oseni, to court for criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, murder and armed robbery.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Adeniji Kazeem, said in a statement that the four suspects, namely Duba Furejo, Ododomo Isaiah, Reuben Anthony and Yerin Fresh would be prosecuted in accordance with the relevant laws applicable to the alleged crimes committed.

Kazeem said he had already issued legal advice for the prosecution of the suspected kidnappers, assuring that the suspects would be charged for offences of conspiracy, kidnapping and a two-count charge of murder and armed robbery.

He added that the charge would be filed expeditiously at the state high court to ensure prompt prosecution of the suspects.

Besides, the commissioner said the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, as part of its commitment to making the state a safe place to live and do business, would continue to support  law enforcement agencies in the investigation and apprehension of all criminals, especially those involved in heinous crime of kidnapping, armed robbery and murder.

According to him, “Governor Ambode is committed to ensuring that Lagos State becomes a no-go area for criminals who target innocent citizens for kidnapping and collection of ransom.

“My office will continually give the necessary support to the police in apprehension, investigation and prosecution of criminals in Lagos State,” Kazeem said.

He, however, urged residents to promptly provide information that could lead to the apprehension of criminals, assuring that government would continue to work assiduously to ensure that criminals were brought to justice.

He also said  the state government was desirous to prosecute, to logical conclusion and promptly, all criminal cases, as well as ensure that suspects were brought to justice swiftly.

It will be recalled that during the unfortunate and dastardly crime, the security guard in the palace and a commercial bike rider were killed, while the traditional ruler was whisked away and kept in captivity for about 21 days.

The sustained pressure and intelligence gathering from law enforcement agencies, however, led to the rescue of the traditional ruler, while the four suspects were apprehended in the process.