Two nationals from the Republic of Benin, Kosoko Rafiu and Nunayo Sunayo, have been apprehended for allegedly stealing a vehicle in Lagos State.
The suspects were arrested while attempting to flee with the stolen vehicle along the Mile 2-Badagry Expressway on August 6, 2024.
PUNCH Metro gathered that the suspects, after hijacking the vehicle, tried to evade a police checkpoint by speeding.
However, they were eventually caught at the Abule Ado area of the state.
Confirming the incident, on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that the suspects had stolen the vehicle from a function in the Anthony Village area.
“These suspects, who specialise in stealing vehicles from events, thought the ongoing protests would provide them an easy escape route out of Nigeria,” Hundeyin said.
He further explained the circumstances leading to their arrest.
“Luck ran out on them after stealing the vehicle at about 12am.
“While on a special duty due to the ongoing protests, the Divisional Police Officer of Trade Fair received intelligence that a red Toyota Corona was heading their way.
“The vehicle was suspiciously moving at a high speed, prompting the DPO to alert his team for a stop and search operation,” he said.
Hundeyin added that upon reaching the checkpoint, the suspects sped off again.
He said, “They were immediately given a hot chase and eventually flagged down at Abule Ado, where they were promptly arrested along with the stolen vehicle and taken to the police station for further investigation.”
According to him, during the investigation, the suspects confessed to travelling from the Republic of Benin specifically to steal vehicles in Nigeria.
The police spokesperson also said that the Toyota Corona, with registration number JJJ 741 EJ, was recovered from the suspects along with various charms, adding that the investigation into the matter was ongoing.
