The Ogun State Police Command has recovered a 2016 Toyota Camry belonging to an Indian national, less than eight hours after it was reported stolen.
The vehicle, owned by Abhay Singh, who is based at the Ilupeju Industrial Estate in Lagos, was allegedly taken by his newly employed driver, identified as Waidi Olaide Kolawale.
According to the police, Kolawale had been employed only two days before the incident. He reportedly told his employer that he was taking the vehicle to a nearby vulcaniser to repair a tyre but allegedly disappeared with the car.
Following a report of the theft, the vehicle was electronically tracked to the Ifo area of Ogun State. Police operatives attached to the Ifo Division subsequently tracked it through several locations before finding it at a hotel around 8:30 p.m.
The police said Kolawale fled when officers arrived, taking the vehicle’s ignition key with him. However, an alleged accomplice, identified as Monday Adetunji, was arrested at the hotel.
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Preliminary investigation reportedly revealed that the suspects had approached a mechanic to remove the vehicle’s catalyst, but the mechanic declined.
The recovered vehicle was later verified and handed back to its owner at the Ifo Divisional Police Headquarters.
The Ogun State Police Command advised vehicle owners to use tracking devices and additional anti-theft measures such as steering and tyre locks. It also urged the public to conduct proper checks when entrusting vehicles and other property to individuals.
The police further called on hoteliers to strengthen guest and vehicle verification procedures and promptly report suspicious activities.
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