The Ondo State Police Command has intensified its operations against motorcycle theft, leading to multiple arrests and the recovery of stolen bikes in different parts of the state.
Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to dismantle criminal syndicates and protect the means of livelihood of residents.
Details of the operations were contained in a statement issued on Monday via X by the Command’s spokesperson, Jimoh Abayomi. The statement noted that the latest successes reflect its “unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, dismantling criminal networks, and safeguarding the livelihoods of residents.”
One of the incidents occurred on April 9, 2026, when operatives from the Funbi-Fagun Division apprehended a 28-year-old suspect, Joseph James. He was allegedly caught while trying to transport a stolen black Boxer motorcycle from the Sabo area of Ondo.
“The suspect was intercepted while attempting to move a stolen black Boxer motorcycle from the Sabo area of Ondo,” the Command stated.
Police confirmed that the motorcycle, estimated to be worth ₦500,000 and reported missing a day earlier, was recovered immediately.
“The motorcycle, valued at approximately ₦500,000 and reported stolen on 8th April 2026, was promptly recovered,” the statement read.
Authorities added that the suspect is cooperating with investigators, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend his accomplice who fled the scene.
In another operation on April 22, 2026, police responded to a complaint from a resident, Olowolafe, whose red Boxer motorcycle was stolen from Araromi Street in Akure. Acting on intelligence, officers tracked down and arrested Raji Akeem in the Shasha area while he was allegedly trying to sell the stolen bike.
“acting on intelligence, operatives tracked and arrested one Raji Akeem at Shasha while attempting to dispose of the stolen motorcycle.”
The police disclosed that the suspect had been attacked by a mob before officers intervened and is currently receiving treatment while in custody.
“The suspect had been severely assaulted by an irate mob before police intervention and is currently receiving medical attention under police custody,” the statement said.
The recovered motorcycle has been secured as evidence.
In a separate case, investigations into a report filed on October 14, 2025, led to the arrest of Adedigba Adeola, who allegedly deceived a commercial motorcyclist into handing over his bike under the pretense of a trip.
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Police said the suspect initially denied involvement but later admitted to the crime during interrogation.
“initially denied the allegation but later confessed during interrogation, admitting to being the principal actor.”
He also reportedly explained how the motorcycle was concealed before being sold.
“He further revealed that he concealed the motorcycle in an uncompleted building for four days before selling it to one Danjuma Gideon of Canon Adeyemi Road, Ondo,” the Command stated.
Efforts are ongoing to recover the stolen motorcycle and apprehend other individuals connected to the crime.
“These incidents highlight the evolving tactics employed by criminal elements, including deception, opportunistic theft, and rapid disposal of stolen property,” the statement added.
The Command said it has stepped up surveillance, intelligence gathering, and patrol activities in identified hotspots across the state to curb the menace.