“Mentally Unstable” Man Found with 27 SIM Cards Arrested in Lagos

A man identified as Godwin has been arrested by the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) in Epe for allegedly disguising as mentally unstable while in possession of 27 registered SIM cards. The arrest followed multiple complaints from local residents who had observed the man’s suspicious behaviour around an abandoned building near the T-junction in Epe.

According to a statement released by the LNSC, residents reported seeing the suspect frequently changing clothes each morning and making phone calls late at night—activities deemed unusual for someone presenting as mentally unwell. Acting on a tip-off, officers from the Epe Command carried out a routine patrol on May 5 and found the suspect temporarily absent from his usual location. A search of the premises revealed 27 SIM cards concealed inside a section of a block wall.

Upon his return to the location, Godwin was apprehended by operatives. During initial questioning, he confirmed his identity and provided details about his background but refused to disclose the whereabouts of any mobile phones connected to the SIM cards.

A local food vendor also confirmed that the suspect displayed behaviour inconsistent with someone who was mentally ill, describing him as “often appearing mentally sound.”

Godwin has since been transferred to the police for further investigation. While some residents expressed fears that the suspect might be involved in kidnapping, the state police command has stated that no evidence currently supports such claims, and the investigation remains ongoing.