By our Reporter
The Ogun State Police Command has recovered a stolen 2016 Toyota Camry from a hotel in Ifo, less than eight hours after it was reported stolen, and arrested one suspect in connection with the incident.
The vehicle, owned by Abhay Singh, an Indian national based at the Ilupeju Industrial Estate, Lagos, was allegedly stolen on September 9 by his driver, Waidi Olaide Kolawale, who had been employed only two days earlier.
According to the police, Kolawale told his employer that he was taking the vehicle to a nearby vulcaniser to repair a tyre but allegedly absconded with it.
Following the report, the vehicle was electronically tracked to the Ifo axis. The information was subsequently passed to the Divisional Police Officer, Ifo Division, CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi, who analysed the intelligence and deployed surveillance and anti-robbery operatives.
The police said the operatives tracked the vehicle through several locations before locating it at a hotel in Ifo at about 8:30 p.m.
Upon sighting the police, Kolawale allegedly fled with the vehicle’s ignition key, while his alleged accomplice, Monday Adetunji, was arrested at the scene.
Preliminary investigation reportedly revealed that the suspects had approached a mechanic with an intention to remove the vehicle’s catalyst, but the mechanic declined to participate.
The recovered vehicle was subsequently secured by the police, while efforts continued to apprehend the fleeing suspect and establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged theft.
The Ogun State Police Command said the recovery demonstrated its technology-driven and intelligence-led approach to policing, while also highlighting the importance of prompt reporting and coordinated police response in tackling vehicle theft.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Ifo operatives for what he described as their professionalism, vigilance and swift response. He also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
The Command advised vehicle owners to use reliable tracking devices and additional anti-theft measures, including steering and tyre locks. It also urged members of the public to exercise due diligence when entrusting vehicles, property and access to their homes or businesses to others.
Hoteliers were similarly advised to strengthen guest and vehicle verification procedures, maintain accurate records and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities.
Meanwhile, the police have handed over the recovered Toyota Camry to its rightful owner, Abhay Singh, following verification of ownership.
The vehicle was formally handed over to Singh by the DPO, Ifo Division, CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi, at the Ifo Divisional Police Headquarters.
The police urged members of the public to report suspicious activities through the Gateway Shield Toll-Free Line: 0800 000 9111, or 09164859299 and 09154293464.
