The Unfiltered Story Of Lawrence Anini From Edo State, Nigeria’s Most Notorious Armed Robber In The 1980s

By Omo-Ikirodah John

Born in 1960 in a village approximately 20 miles from Benin City, in present-day Edo State, Anini’s early years were marked by migration to Benin City, where he mastered the art of driving, eventually becoming a skilled taxi driver. READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

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Within Benin’s bustling motor parks, Anini earned a reputation for mediating between various factions of motor park touts and operators. However, he soon transitioned into the criminal underworld, serving as a driver and transporter for gangs, criminal syndicates, and thieves.

Subsequently, Anini formed his own gang, including members like Monday Osunbor and Ofege. They initially engaged in car hijackings, bus robberies, and bank heists within Benin City, gradually expanding their criminal operations to other towns and cities across the region.

The complicity of law enforcement is believed to have emboldened Anini’s reign of terror in 1986. Following a perceived betrayal by the police, Anini retaliated with a series of violent actions, including fatal bank robberies and targeted attacks on law enforcement officers.

During one infamous incident in August 1986, Anini’s gang executed a bank robbery in Sabongida-Ora, resulting in multiple casualties. Over the following months, the gang continued its spree of violence, perpetrating robbery attacks and eliminating perceived threats with impunity.

Despite the intensified efforts of law enforcement agencies to apprehend Anini and his accomplices, their activities persisted, instilling fear across the nation. However, the tide turned when Superintendent of Police Kayode Uanreroro courageously led a team to capture Anini on December 3, 1986.

Following a tip-off from locals, Uanreroro and his team stormed Anini’s hideout, where they encountered minimal resistance. In a dramatic confrontation, Anini was apprehended and subsequently underwent amputation of one of his legs due to injuries sustained during his arrest.

Anini’s capture marked the end of his reign of terror, culminating in his conviction and eventual execution on March 29, 1987. Throughout his trial, Anini remained confined to a wheelchair, a stark reminder of the consequences of his criminal activities.

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