Three teenagers have been arrested by operatives of Rapid Response Squad (RRS) after snatching a bag containing two wraps of Fufu and stew from a lady.

Members of the gang, identified as Daniel Dali, 19; Emmanuel Ashaolu, 17, and Ikenna Bright, 17, were arrested on Friday in Ajegunle by a surveillance team that was on routine patrol of the area.

It was learned that Dali, a commercial motorcyclist from Cotonou, and Ashaolu reportedly snatched the bag from a lady, who raised alarm. The operatives pursued the suspects, who were on Okada, and arrested Ashaolu.

Later, they mobilised and combed the area at night, leading to the arrest of Dali, the Okada rider and Bright. However, on interrogation, it turned out that they were part of a robbery syndicate. Dali confessed that he rides the Okada for the gang and that he started stealing in April 2015 after the death of his mother.

Another suspect, Bright, said he had only operated seven times. He said: “During fuel crisis, we syphon fuel from vehicles parked on the streets, so we move around for our operations. Several boys do this business in Ajegunle. I know of a team that lives in different hotels, sleep in the day time and operate at night. This is the only job they do to survive.”

According to Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dolapo Badmos, the suspects have given useful information that would lead to the arrest of other members of the gangs.