Leader of Oshodi pick-pocket group, 20 others nabbed

A self-acclaimed leader of the pick-pocket gangs in Oshodi and neighbouring communities has been arrested by the police.

The suspect, Kasali, popularly known as Babangida, and 20 other hoodlums, who were, at the weekend, arrested  by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad,  were allegedly responsible for robbery and other attacks unleashed on innocent citizens and passersby at Oshodi and neighbouring communities .

Lagos Metro gathered that Kasali was feared by his colleagues for his ruthlessness and popularity.

“Some of his colleagues earlier arrested gave him out as their leader, and that he is the one that goes around to collect items stolen or snatched from passers-by to sell and share the proceeds to  members,’ a police source said.

Kasali, the source stated, had been to prison four times while one of his accomplices also arrested, Yusuph, 18, from Ogun State, was just out of prison for the eighth time.

Upon  completion of preliminary screening, four out of  the 21 arrested suspects, who could provide satisfactory information about their identities, were released.

While confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent of Police, SP Dolapo Badmos, reassured people of the state, of maximum security, adding that the suspects would face the full wrath of law.

The suspects have been transferred to the Lagos State Taskforce on Environment for prosecution.