The Lagos State Police Command has arrested two suspected land grabbers following an attempted invasion of the Wood Island Estate in the Ishawo area of Ikorodu, a year after the demolition of over 100 houses in the same estate by alleged land speculators.

According to police sources, the suspects were apprehended on Thursday after residents and vigilante groups mobilised to resist a renewed takeover attempt by the thugs.

One of the suspects, identified as Rasak Segun, was reportedly caught with a white pistol while attempting to flee through a neighbouring estate. He was apprehended by members of a local vigilante group and subsequently handed over to officers at the Owutu Police Station.

A police source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that Segun confessed to community members that he was mobilised from Ajah, an area located on the other end of Lagos.

In a separate incident within the same community, another suspect was intercepted in a Toyota Corolla vehicle. While other occupants of the car escaped, the driver was arrested. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of three pump-action rifles and various charms.

Confirming the arrests, Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that the suspects are in custody and investigations are ongoing.

“On Friday, April 11, at about 7:25 p.m., a complainant from the Owutu area of Ikorodu, accompanied by a vigilante member, reported that one Segun was sighted moving suspiciously,” Hundeyin said. “Upon interrogation, he failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for his presence. A search of his bag revealed a pistol with two live rounds and a mobile phone.”

Residents of Wood Island Estate have remained on high alert following last year’s demolition, which they attributed to land speculators attempting to forcibly reclaim property.

Community members are calling for sustained police presence and legal intervention to prevent further clashes and protect legitimate homeowners.