The Ondo State Police Command on Friday said its operatives recovered a stolen Toyota RAV4 and arrested a 39-year-old suspected armed robber during a special operation launched to combat rising cases of vehicle theft in the state.
The intelligence-led operation was carried out by operatives of the Fagun Division on Monday, May 12, 2026, following credible information about an attempt to fraudulently register a vehicle suspected to have been stolen.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, operatives swiftly mobilised to the location where the suspect, identified as Ayodabo Temitope, was allegedly attempting to process registration documents for the vehicle under suspicious circumstances.
The suspect was immediately apprehended, while detectives launched further investigations that led officers to the Ifetedo area, where the Toyota RAV4 was successfully recovered.
Police investigations later revealed that the vehicle belonged to Sanni Halilulai of Ireshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State.
The owner reportedly confirmed that the SUV had been stolen from where it was parked on September 17, 2025.
The recovered vehicle has since been secured by the police, while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the theft, possible alteration of the vehicle’s details, and the involvement of other suspected members of a criminal network linked to the case.
Following verification of ownership documents and vehicle particulars, the police released the Toyota RAV4 to its rightful owner.
The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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Speaking after reclaiming his vehicle, the owner expressed gratitude to the Ondo State Police Command for its professionalism, swift response, and diligent efforts in recovering the stolen SUV.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives involved in the operation for their vigilance and professionalism, noting that the successful recovery highlights the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and proactive crime prevention.
CP Lawal also appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his support, strategic leadership, and continued guidance, which he said have strengthened the Command’s operational effectiveness.
Reaffirming the Command’s resolve to combat organised crime, the police commissioner warned that Ondo State would not become a safe haven for criminals involved in vehicle theft and trafficking.
He further urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, stressing that public cooperation remains crucial in tackling criminal activities and improving security across the state.