The Ondo State Police Command has announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with the theft of a Lexus ES350 car in Warri, Delta State, and its subsequent recovery.
The suspects, identified as Alawuye, 31, and Tosin, 32, were apprehended following intelligence-driven operations by operatives of the Command, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
According to a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi Kazeem, the inter-agency partnership led to the interception of the vehicle when it was presented at the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) Office in Akure for document renewal.
DSP Kazeem explained that preliminary verification revealed that the vehicle’s registration number had not been captured on the NVIS portal, prompting a discreet and thorough investigation.
“Subsequent inquiries confirmed that the Lexus ES350 was forcefully stolen at gunpoint in Warri, Delta State, in February 2022. Acting on this development, operatives of the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad arrested Alawuye, male; aged 31 and Tosin, male; aged 32 years, in connection with the crime and successfully recovered the vehicle,” he said.
He affirmed that the suspects made useful statements that are currently aiding efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal network, stressing that arrangements have been concluded through collaboration between the Ondo and Delta State Police Commands for the release of the recovered vehicle to its rightful owner in Delta State.
The spokesperson added that the operational success highlights the Command’s unwavering determination to ensure that criminal elements are tracked, identified, and brought to justice, regardless of where offences are committed.
Speaking on the arrest, the Ondo Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his visionary leadership and strategic policing reforms, which continue to strengthen intelligence-sharing, operational coordination, and efficiency across police formations nationwide.
CP Lawal also praised the officers involved for their professionalism and diligence, describing the success as a reflection of the Command’s renewed commitment to quality policing.
He reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support sustained and effective crime-prevention efforts.
