The Police Command in Ondo State says it has successfully recovered a stolen Toyota Highlander Jeep and arrested two prime suspects involved in the theft.
DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the command’s spokesperson, made this known in a statement on Tuesday in Akure, saying that the vehicle belonged to one Olaolu Benson of Lege via Kajola community in the state.
Ayanlade, who said that the incident occurred on October 4, 2025 at about 1800hrs, explained that Benson was allegedly deceived by two individuals identified as Oluwajobi Ezekiel and Patrick Francis, both residents of the same community.
“The suspects, who were known to the complainant, approached him under the guise that one of the tyres of his Toyota Highlander Jeep, 2012 model with registration number KSF 433 JR, was deflated.
“They requested permission to take the vehicle to gauge the tyre.
“Trusting them as familiar faces within the neighborhood, the unsuspecting victim released the car to the duo, unaware that they harboured criminal intentions.
“Rather than returning as promised, the suspects diverted the vehicle, proceeded to a nearby filling station where they purchased sufficient fuel, and then attempted to drive the car to Ondo town with the intent to sell it off.
“Their deceitful conduct immediately raised suspicion, prompting swift intelligence coordination by the Kajola Police Division.
“Acting promptly on credible information, operatives from the division launched a discreet manhunt, which culminated in the interception and arrest of both suspects before they could dispose of the stolen vehicle,” he said
The spokesperson said that the Toyota Highlander was subsequently recovered in good condition while the suspects were taken into custody for questioning.
“Following the arrest of the suspects, preliminary investigation commenced immediately, revealing the calculated nature of their plan.
“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for in-depth and professional investigation to ensure that all accomplices and possible buyers in the criminal chain are identified and brought to justice.
“The remarkable breakthrough underscored the command’s sustained commitment to prompt response and diligent investigation in curbing criminal activities across the state,” he said.
The apokesperson explained that the Commissioner of Police (CP), Adebowale Lawal, had assured residents of the command’s resolution in ensuring that offenders faced the full wrath of the law.
Ayanlade said the CP also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when entrusting their vehicles or valuables to others, irrespective of familiarity.
