Suspected Car Thieves Apprehended in Lagos, Police Recover Cache of Stolen Parts

LAGOS POLICE SMASH VEHICLE THEFT RING, ARREST TWO SUSPECTS

In a breakthrough operation, detectives from the Lagos State Police Command have apprehended two suspects in connection with a recent spate of vehicle vandalism and thefts in the state.

The arrests followed a swift investigation prompted by a complaint from a resident of an estate targeted by thieves on July 31, 2024. The resident reported the incident to the police at 11:40 a.m., stating that unknown thieves had infiltrated their estate around 3:00 a.m., vandalizing several vehicles and stealing valuable parts, including brain boxes.

Acting on the complaint, detectives launched a manhunt that led them to Ilewe Junction, Ikotun, where they arrested 47-year-old Jefferson Emeka Joshua on August 3, 2024. A subsequent investigation on August 10, 2024, resulted in the arrest of a second suspect, 45-year-old Donatus Okoro, at Idowu Street in Ajegunle.

Both suspects have reportedly confessed to their involvement in the crime, which has been linked to a syndicate responsible for a series of vehicle thefts in the state.

During the arrests, police recovered several items, including a red Toyota Camry with registration number FKL 260 JJ, a police beret, and a pair of handcuffs, allegedly used by the suspects during their operations.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate involved in the thefts.