By Duchess Ifeoluwa
Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a suspected car theft syndicate operating in Akure, arresting two suspects and recovering a stolen Toyota Camry in a case that underscores the growing use of intelligence-led policing in tackling property crimes.
The Command disclosed that the breakthrough followed a complaint lodged on February 27, 2026 by a resident, Adeyemi Robert, who reported the theft of his vehicle earlier in the month.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the complainant had attended a social function on February 14, 2026 at Sijuade Street, Akure, where he parked his Toyota Camry saloon car, with registration number AH173WWD, in front of the venue.
However, upon returning after the event, he discovered that the vehicle had been stolen.
Detectives immediately commenced investigations, deploying a combination of intelligence gathering and other forensic and field strategies to track the vehicle and identify those responsible.
Their efforts yielded results when operatives traced the stolen car to one Awolo Akingbade, 40, who was found in possession of the vehicle.
He was subsequently taken in for questioning.
Further inquiries led to the arrest of the alleged principal suspect, Adeyemi David, who is believed to have stolen the vehicle and sold it to the buyer.
Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect disposed of the car shortly after the theft, pointing to an organised network involved in the illegal acquisition and resale of vehicles.
The police confirmed that the stolen Toyota Camry has been recovered and secured as an exhibit, while both suspects have made statements to assist ongoing investigations.
They have since been charged to court following the conclusion of preliminary inquiries.
Commenting on the development, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives for their professionalism and diligence, noting that their swift and coordinated action was instrumental in cracking the case.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state, warning individuals engaged in criminal activities to desist or face the full weight of the law.
The police boss also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and support law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains a critical component in the fight against crime.
