How One-Chance Syndicates Operate: Insights from the Arrest of a Lagos Driver
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) recently apprehended the driver of a notorious one-chance syndicate that used a commercial bus with the number plate KSF 56 XL to rob unsuspecting passengers.
This arrest sheds light on the operations of such criminal groups and offers valuable lessons for commuters in Lagos and beyond.
The Arrest
According to a statement by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the arrest occurred on Tuesday along Funsho Williams Avenue in Surulere. A female passenger, Bibian Emelifonwu, fell victim to the syndicate while commuting to work that morning.
Miss Emelifonwu recounted how she boarded the bus and sat next to a male passenger in the front seat, who carried a nylon bag. Under the guise of opening the door beside her, the man skillfully stole her phone from her bag. To compound the trauma, the criminals forcefully ejected her from the moving vehicle onto the highway.
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Fortunately, a team of LASTMA officers in the vicinity witnessed the incident and swiftly pursued the fleeing bus. The driver, identified as Toyib Ogunjobi, was apprehended, although his accomplices—the conductor and another passenger—managed to escape.
The Syndicate’s Modus Operandi
During interrogation, Ogunjobi confessed to leading a three-man syndicate that specialized in robbing passengers. He disclosed that:
1.The group operated on the Costain-Ojota route, attracting passengers with unusually low fares.
2.Once aboard, they executed thefts by distracting or physically overpowering passengers.
3.Victims were often ejected from the moving vehicle after being robbed.
The driver revealed that the syndicate earned between ₦250,000 and ₦300,000 daily by selling stolen phones and valuables. Seven stolen phones, including brands like Techno Pop, Samsung AZZ, and Intel A623, were recovered during the arrest.
Lessons for Commuters
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance when boarding commercial buses or private vehicles. Here are some safety tips for Lagos residents and other commuters:
•Avoid Suspiciously Low Fares: One-chance operators often lure victims with fares significantly lower than the market rate.
•Observe the Vehicle and Occupants: Check the bus’s condition, number plate, and the demeanor of the driver and passengers before boarding.
•Guard Your Belongings: Keep valuables secure and out of sight, and remain alert throughout the journey.
•Avoid Isolated Routes: Opt for buses in well-lit and busy areas, as syndicates often operate in secluded locations.
LASTMA’s Efforts and Warnings
LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the officers involved in the arrest and emphasized that Ogunjobi would be handed over to law enforcement agencies for thorough investigation and prosecution. He also urged Lagosians to exercise caution when using both commercial and private vehicles.
This case serves as a reminder that the fight against one-chance syndicates requires both proactive law enforcement and heightened public awareness. Commuters are encouraged to report suspicious activities and prioritize their safety above convenience.
By staying informed and alert, Lagos residents can help reduce the prevalence of such criminal activities and ensure safer travels for all.
