By our Reporter
The Ondo State Police Command has recorded another breakthrough in its sustained crackdown on vehicle theft and trafficking of stolen automobiles with the recovery of a suspected stolen Toyota RAV4 and the arrest of a suspect in Akure.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the Fagun Division, Akure, followed credible intelligence received on Monday, May 12, 2026, regarding an attempt to register a Toyota RAV4 suspected to have been stolen.
Acting swiftly on the information, police operatives mobilised to the location for discreet surveillance and intervention. The suspect, identified as Ayodabo Temitope, 39, was arrested while allegedly attempting to process registration documents for the vehicle under suspicious circumstances.
Following his arrest, detectives expanded their investigation, which later led them to the Ifetedo area where the Toyota RAV4 was successfully recovered.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the recovered vehicle belongs to one Sanni Halilulai of Ireshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State. The owner was immediately contacted and confirmed that the vehicle had been stolen from where it was parked on September 17, 2025.
Police authorities said the vehicle was secured as investigations continued into the circumstances surrounding the theft, possible alteration of vehicle particulars, and the involvement of other suspected members of the criminal network linked to the case.
The Command added that after proper verification of ownership documents and vehicle particulars, the recovered Toyota RAV4 was released to its rightful owner, while the suspect remains in police custody pending prosecution.
Speaking after recovering his vehicle, the owner expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Police Command for its professionalism, swift response, and diligent efforts in recovering the stolen automobile.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives involved in the operation for their vigilance and professionalism, noting that the success further demonstrates the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and proactive crime prevention.
He also appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his support, strategic leadership, and continued guidance, which he said had strengthened the Command’s operational capacity.
The police boss reassured residents that the Command remains determined to dismantle criminal syndicates involved in vehicle theft and other organised crimes across the state.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in combating crime and enhancing security across Ondo State.
