A dramatic breakthrough in Lagos has led to the arrest of a suspected serial rapist whose face has haunted social media in recent weeks. The Lagos State Police Command announced that its crack detectives have apprehended one Adedayo Ben Adebola, a commercial taxi driver accused of a series of brutal attacks on unsuspecting female passengers across the city.
For weeks, whispers had grown into a public outcry as stories circulated online about women being lured into a red Toyota Corolla and subjected to harrowing experiences. The viral posts shared by victims and concerned citizens painted the picture of a predator who blended into the city’s bustling transport system — until now.
Following a direct order from the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundaare Jimoh, operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, swung into coordinated action. According to Police sources, the detectives launched an extensive and discreet investigation, combining intelligence-gathering, surveillance, and digital tracking to unmask the suspect.
Their efforts paid off on the morning of *October 31, 2025, at about 9:40 a.m., when the long arm of the law finally caught up with Adegbola. The suspect was arrested in Lagos after what officers described as a “painstaking and intelligence-led operation.”
Recovered from his possession was the now-infamous operational vehicle — a red Toyota Corolla, with registration number JJJ 226 HT— believed to have been used repeatedly in perpetrating the heinous crimes. The car, a symbol of fear for many women in recent weeks, has now become a crucial exhibit in the case.
Police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the arrest in an official statement issued from the Command Headquarters in Ikeja. She disclosed that several victims have positively identified the suspect, linking him to multiple incidents of rape, defilement, assault occasioning harm, indecent assault, and armed robbery.
“The suspect is currently in Police custody while investigation is being intensified to apprehend other accomplices who may have participated in the commission of these crimes,” Adebisi said. “The recovered vehicle has been secured as an exhibit and will be used during the prosecution.”
The Police Command also made an appeal to victims who may have encountered the suspect to come forward and assist the investigation. Assurances were given that their identities would be fully protected to ensure safety and dignity throughout the legal process.
This arrest marks a major milestone in the Lagos Command’s ongoing effort to curb gender-based violence and protect vulnerable residents, especially women using public and commercial transport. Over the years, similar cases have raised concern about the safety of lone passengers navigating the city’s bustling transit network.
Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh, commended the investigators for their diligence and swift response to public distress. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to upholding justice, restoring confidence among residents, and ensuring that Lagos remains safe for all.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains resolute in its mission to protect lives and property, and to bring all offenders to justice,” he said. “We will continue to update the public as the investigation progresses.”
Meanwhile, social media has been awash with relief and commendation for the Police team, with many residents applauding the swift response to what had become a growing menace. Advocacy groups have also urged survivors to speak out, emphasizing that justice can only be achieved through collective courage and collaboration.
As investigations continue, Lagosians are being reminded to stay vigilant, verify commercial transport details, and promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
With the arrest of Adedayo Ben Adegbola, the State Police hope to close one of the most disturbing chapters of assault cases in recent memory — and send a stern warning to others who prey on the city’s innocent commuters.
