Court sentences 18-year-old boy to one year imprisonment for arson and theft in Kwara

A Kwara State Magistrate Court has sentenced a teenage boy to one year imprisonment for arson and theft.

It will be recalled that the teenage boy, Olawumi Ayomide, set a building on fire in Ilorin after stealing items belonging to the occupants.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, arraigned Ayomide on Monday, September 30.

According to a press release made available to journalists on Tuesday, the Public Relations Officer of the Command, ASC1 Ayoola Michael Shola, the court presided over by Magistrate M.A. Yahaya, found the suspect guilty and sentenced him to one year in Mandala Correctional Centre without the option of a fine.

“On Wednesday, 25th September 2024, at 1200hrs, the suspect broke into a three-bedroom bungalow belonging to one Mrs. Bolatito Adebayo at No. 50, Afenifere Community, Onireke, Upper Gaa Akanbi, Ilorin South LGA,” the statement read.

“During the invasion, he reportedly stole items such as foodstuffs, groceries, and clothing, and subsequently set the residential building ablaze.

“Upon being apprehended at the scene, the suspect attempted to evade capture by igniting the fire as a diversion. Despite his efforts, he was ultimately captured and handed over to the NSCDC for further investigation and prosecution.

“The NSCDC Kwara State Commandant, Dr. Umar J.G. Mohammed, reiterated the Corps’ relentless onslaught against criminal activities in the state and vowed to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.”