Detectives from the Ifo Division of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a fleeing trailer driver and four other suspects in connection with the theft and dismantling of a stolen truck, uncovering what appears to be a syndicate involved in stripping and disposing of stolen vehicles.
The suspects are Temitope Odulaja, 47, the truck’s driver; Segun Suleiman, 27; Haruna Olaogun, 49; Jimoh Wasiu, 42; and Quazzim Suleiman, 49. Police also recovered parts of the stolen trailer during the operation.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the case began when the trailer’s owner reported to Ifo Divisional Headquarters that his driver had absconded with the vehicle on June 6, 2026. “He reported that his driver absconded with the vehicle on June 6, 2026, and all efforts to locate him proved abortive,” Babaseyi said.
Detectives led by the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Olabisi Kamorudeen, launched an intelligence-led investigation and used technical tracking methods. On July 24, 2026, operatives traced Odulaja to Ikorodu, Lagos State, and arrested him. “The suspect reportedly provided useful information that advanced the investigation,” Babaseyi stated.
That information led officers to Ijebu-Ode on Saturday, where the four other suspects were arrested at different locations for their alleged roles in the criminal enterprise. Preliminary findings showed the trailer was dismantled shortly after it was stolen and its components sold off. Detectives have recovered some of the parts and documented them as exhibits.
Efforts continue to recover the remaining components, identify other members of the suspected syndicate, and determine the full scope of its activities. Babaseyi assured the public that the investigation remains ongoing and that anyone found culpable will be charged to court.
Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended the detectives for their professionalism, describing the operation as a significant breakthrough against organised vehicle theft. He urged transport operators, fleet owners, logistics companies, and members of the public to stay vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities to the police.
