Ogun Police Recover Stolen Toyota Camry From Ifo Hotel, Arrest One

By Adebola Muili

Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have recovered a stolen 2016 Toyota Camry from a hotel in Ifo less than eight hours after receiving a report of the theft, arresting one suspect while intensifying efforts to apprehend another who fled the scene.

The vehicle, belonging to an Indian national based at the Ilupeju Industrial Estate, Lagos, was allegedly stolen on September 9, 2026, by the owner’s driver, Waidi Olaide Kolawale, who had reportedly been employed only two days earlier.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, Kolawale told his employer that he was taking the vehicle to a nearby vulcaniser to repair a tyre but allegedly absconded with it.

Babaseyi, in a statement issued on Sunday, said the vehicle was electronically tracked to the Ifo axis following the report, prompting the Divisional Police Officer, Ifo Division, CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi, to deploy surveillance and anti-robbery operatives.

The operatives tracked the vehicle through several locations before locating it at a hotel in Ifo at about 8:30 p.m.

The PPRO said that upon sighting the police, Kolawale allegedly fled with the ignition key, while his alleged accomplice, identified as Monday Adetunji, was arrested at the scene.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects had allegedly approached a mechanic to remove the vehicle’s catalyst, but the mechanic declined,” Babaseyi said.

He added that the recovered vehicle had been secured, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Babaseyi said the swift recovery demonstrated the command’s “proactive, technology-driven and intelligence-led approach to policing,” stressing the importance of prompt reporting and coordinated police response in denying criminals safe operating space.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Ifo operatives for their professionalism, vigilance and swift response.

Ojajuni also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

The command advised vehicle owners to use reliable tracking devices and adopt additional anti-theft measures, including steering locks and tyre locks.

It also urged members of the public to exercise due diligence when entrusting their vehicles, property or access to their homes and businesses to others.

Hoteliers were similarly advised to strengthen guest and vehicle verification, maintain accurate records and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities.

The command urged members of the public to report suspicious activities through the Gateway Shield Toll-Free Line, 0800 000 9111, or 09164859299 and 09154293464.