A 22-year-old woman, identified as Azeez Khadijat, has been arrested by police in Ogun State for allegedly helping to repaint a suspected stolen minibus, with authorities investigating whether she knew the vehicle was stolen.
The arrest was made by detectives from the Omu-Ijebu Divisional Headquarters following a tip-off.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, officers received information that a group of suspects were hiding in a bush along Ikhasi Road, Kajola, repainting a minibus without a registration number.
The vehicle, commonly known as “Korope,” was originally painted yellow but was being changed to white and blue. Police believe the repainting was an attempt to disguise the bus and avoid detection.
When officers arrived at the scene, the suspects reportedly fled into the bush. However, Khadijat was found inside the vehicle and arrested on the spot.
The minibus was recovered and taken to the station, where it was later discovered to have a Lagos State registration number.
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Items recovered at the scene included three mobile phones, a power bank, paint materials, sandpaper, and a charging cable.
Police sources say investigators are working to determine if the suspect was aware that the bus had been stolen or if she was unknowingly involved in the repainting.
Preliminary findings suggest the vehicle may have been used for criminal activities in Lagos, and the repainting was meant to conceal its identity.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, praised the officers for their swift response and assured the public that all those involved would be brought to justice.
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