A 13-year-old boy, John Joseph, was allegedly found in possession of a locally made pistol during a police stop-and-search operation along the Shagamu/Ogijo Road axis in Ogun State.
Police in a statement said the minor was intercepted on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at about 1100hrs by operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) of the Ogun State Police Command while travelling in a tricycle at the Lafarge area.
A search conducted on him led to the recovery of one locally made pistol, one live cartridge, and a mask, items he could not satisfactorily explain.
The teenager, however, told the police that the firearm belonged to his father, prompting further action by the operatives.
Following the disclosure, the police intensified efforts and subsequently arrested the father, identified as Joseph Kehinde, aged 38.
Both suspects, along with the recovered exhibits, have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Authorities said investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the case, adding that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
The police leadership acknowledged the conduct of the operatives involved in the arrest.
“Both suspects, along with the recovered exhibits, have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for thorough investigation. Investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the case. The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation,” the statement said.
The command also restated its position on unlawful possession of firearms and related offences.
“He (Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni) reiterates the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal possession of firearms and other criminal activities, assuring residents of sustained efforts to ensure safety and security across the state,” it said.
The police further called on members of the public to support security efforts through information sharing.