Kayode Uaneroro, the retired police officer famed for leading the arrest of notorious armed robber Lawrence Anini in the late 1980s, has died.
According to the information gathered, he passed away yesterday morning.
Uaneroro, a towering figure known for his imposing presence and uncompromising approach to law enforcement, was commandant at the Mobile Police Training School in Gwoza when the task of apprehending Anini became a national priority.
According to the information, following the suggestions made to the then Inspector-General of Police, he was detailed to lead the mission that eventually ended Anini’s reign of terror.
Standing over six feet tall, dark, muscular, and a black belt in karate, Uaneroro was more than a crack detective, he was a fearless crime fighter with years of experience confronting violent armed robbers across the country.
His reputation for courage and results made him the natural choice for the high-stakes operation.
Acting on intelligence, Uaneroro and a ten-man undercover but heavily armed police squad stormed a house in Benin City where Anini was hiding.
The robber, who had terrorized the nation and embarrassed security forces, was caught off guard. Uaneroro personally shot him in the left ankle, immobilising him and bringing his reign to a dramatic end.
The operation marked a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against armed robbery and restored public confidence in the police at the time.
Until his death, Uaneroro was remembered as one of the most formidable crime busters in Nigeria’s police history.
