Lagos Taskforce arrests three over alleged attempt to steal VIO vehicle’s brain-box
Taskforce Arrests Three in Vehicle Parts Theft Investigation
LAGOS—The Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, commonly known as the Taskforce, has apprehended three men suspected of stealing components from parked vehicles.
CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Taskforce, announced the arrests in a statement released Sunday by agency spokesperson Abdulraheem Gbadeyan.
According to Akerele, the suspects were caught in the act at a Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) facility in Oshodi while attempting to remove the brain-box from a Toyota Hilux. The vehicle, which was being used for official duties, belonged to the VIO.
A fourth suspect, identified only as Tony, remains at large and is alleged to be involved in receiving stolen vehicle parts.
The Taskforce began monitoring the group after receiving complaints from government agencies about the theft of various vehicle components, including batteries, brain-boxes, spare tires, and jacks.
“Following complaints regarding the theft of vehicle parts, I deployed strategies to track down the suspects,” Akerele stated. He noted that preliminary investigations revealed the suspects targeted vehicles left unattended for long periods in garages and residential areas.
One suspect reportedly confessed during questioning that the group specialized in stealing brain-boxes and could remove two or three in a day when operations proceeded smoothly. Investigations revealed that brain-boxes stolen in September 2025 were sold to Tony for N70,000.
The suspects have since been unable to validate claims of engaging in scrap-metal trading, leading to their identification by the confessing suspect.
Akerele assured that the suspects would face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations. He warned that those involved in the theft or trade of stolen vehicle parts will face legal consequences.
“The Taskforce will not relent in protecting vehicle owners from criminal elements specializing in the theft of vehicle parts,” Akerele stated.
He encouraged residents to report suspicious activities through official Taskforce channels to facilitate a timely response. The chairman reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to public safety and the prohibition of criminal activities throughout Lagos.
