Lagos Man Posing as Lunatic Arrested with 27 SIM Cards Hidden in Wall

Operatives of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) have arrested a man identified as Godwin, who was allegedly faking mental illness while in possession of 27 registered SIM cards in the Epe area of Lagos.

In a statement on Tuesday, the LNSC revealed that Godwin, a native of Ughelli in Delta State, had been under surveillance for over a month following reports from residents about his suspicious behavior. Locals noted that he would change clothes discreetly each morning and make frequent, late-night phone calls, despite appearing to live like a vagrant.

Godwin had reportedly taken shelter in an abandoned security post near a T-junction in Epe. Acting on a tip-off, LNSC officers searched the location on May 5 while he was temporarily away. During the search, they discovered 27 SIM cards concealed within a section of a block wall.

Shortly after his return to the site, Godwin was apprehended. During interrogation, he confirmed his identity and background but refused to disclose the location of any phones associated with the SIM cards.

A local food vendor supported suspicions, saying that while Godwin behaved oddly, he often appeared mentally sound and aware.

LNSC spokesperson Oloruntoba Runsewe confirmed that the suspect had been transferred to the police for further investigation. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, also confirmed the handover, stating that preliminary findings suggest Godwin may be mentally unstable and homeless, with no concrete evidence yet linking him to kidnapping or other crimes.