The Police Command in Ondo State says it has recovered two stolen motorcycles and arrested three key suspected thieves in the state.
This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Akure by the command’s Spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh.
Jimoh, who said the command acted on credible intelligence provided by a vigilant security guard, explained that the suspects were arrested at different places.
The spokesperson said one of the suspects, Joseph James aged 28, was arrested on April 9 at about 0430hrs while attempting to move a stolen black Boxer motorcycle from Sabo Area of Ondo Town.
He said the suspect was arrested by the operatives attached to Funbi-Fagun Division, and the motorcycle, which was stolen on April 8 valued N500,000, had been recovered.
“Similarly, on April 22, the command responded swiftly to a report by one Olowolafe ‘m’ of Araromi Street, Akure, whose red Boxer motorcycle had been stolen.
“Acting on intelligence, operatives tracked and arrested one Raji Akeem ‘m’ at Shasha while attempting to dispose of the stolen motorcycle.
“The suspect had been severely assaulted by an irate mob before police intervention and is currently receiving medical attention under police custody.
“The recovered motorcycle has been secured as exhibit, while investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend other accomplices,” Jimoh said.
He explained that the command also arrested Adedigba Adeola for deceitfully dispossessing a commercial motorcyclist, Jolayemi Ahmed ‘m’, of his motorcycle under the pretext of a trip.
Jimoh, who said that the case was reported to the Enu Owa Division on Oct.14,2025, said the suspect was arrested on April 18, 2026
According to him, the suspect initially denied the allegation but later confessed during interrogation, and admitted to being the principal actor.
“The suspect further revealed that he concealed the motorcycle in an uncompleted building for four days before selling it to one Danjuma Gideon ‘m’ of Canon Adeyemi Road, Ondo.
“Efforts are ongoing to recover the motorcycle and arrest all other persons connected to the crime. The case will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.
“These incidents highlight the evolving tactics employed by criminal elements, including deception, exploitation of unsuspecting victims, opportunistic theft, and the rapid disposal of stolen property,” he said.
The spokesperson said the command had intensified intelligence-gathering efforts, strengthened surveillance, and increased patrols across identified hotspots to proactively prevent such crimes.
He said the Commissioner of Police (CP) in the state, Adebowale Lawal, commended the diligence, professionalism, and swift response of officers involved in these operations.
“The command reiterates its call on members of the public to remain vigilant and security-conscious at all times.
“Residents are advised to avoid accepting food, drinks, or items from strangers, particularly while in transit, and to exercise caution when dealing with unfamiliar individuals.
“The public is further encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station, as community cooperation remains vital in the fight against crime.
“The Police Command in Ondo State assures the general public of its continued commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment and will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements,” he said. (NAN)
