Police Arrest Seven Over N20.45m Theft in Ondo State

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested seven suspects in connection with an alleged conspiracy and theft involving goods valued at N20.45 million from a commercial outlet in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The arrests were confirmed in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh.

According to the statement, the case was reported on January 3, 2026, when an Ore-based businessman, Ogunyomi Segun, approached the Ore Divisional Police Headquarters with allegations that some of his employees had been systematically stealing goods from his store.

The complainant told police that the thefts occurred over an extended period, between 2024 and January 3, 2026, making the Ondo theft case one of prolonged internal compromise rather than a one-off incident.

DSP Jimoh said the stolen items included assorted beverages and other products, with an estimated total value of N20,450,000.

“The complainant stated that the suspects stole assorted goods, including soft drinks, Trophy cans, and other canned beverages, with a total estimated value of Twenty Million, Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N20,450,000.00),” the statement said.

Those identified as principal suspects were reportedly employees of the store:

• Oyineke Joseph, male, storekeeper

• Abioye Yusuf, male, computer operator

• Abdullahi Quadir, male, staff member

Police also arrested individuals accused of receiving the stolen goods:

• Micheal Njoku, male

• Agu Monday, male

• Ikuemehin Oloruntimilehin, male

In addition, a driver identified as Ojewuyi, male, was taken into custody for his alleged role in transporting the goods.

According to DSP Jimoh, the suspects admitted involvement in the Ondo theft case during interrogation and reportedly explained how each person played a role in the operation.

Investigators say the case highlights how employee theft and internal collusion can significantly impact small and medium-sized businesses when controls are weak or oversight is limited.

The police spokesperson added that once investigations are concluded, all suspects will be formally charged to court in line with the law.