Police foil attempt to divert N33m worth of goods in Oyo

Oyo Police Prevent Theft of Guinea Corn Valued at N33 Million

OYO TOWN, Nigeria — Operatives from the Oyo State Police Command successfully intervened in an attempted theft involving 670 bags of guinea corn, valued at approximately N33 million. The attempt was made by a truck driver who sought to divert the shipment for personal profit.

The suspects, identified as 46-year-old Monday and his assistant, 40-year-old Kareem, were apprehended in the Irepo area of Oyo Town. The truck carrying the goods was parked, awaiting potential buyers.

According to Police Public Relations Officer DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the operation was executed based on credible intelligence and directives from Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Ayodeji Abimbola. Ayanlade stated that officers targeted a syndicate allegedly involved in the unlawful diversion of goods in transit.

Police recovered an IVECO truck with the registration number MUS 809 XY, which was loaded with the 670 bags of guinea corn. Investigations indicated that the consignment was originally loaded in Kaduna State and intended for delivery in Ibadan, Oyo State. The driver allegedly diverted the shipment after reaching Ogbomoso, aiming to sell the goods in Oyo Town for N11 million, significantly below the market price.

During questioning, Monday reportedly confessed to the offense, stating he intended to sell the goods before disappearing with the proceeds. He claimed it was his first involvement in such an action.

He reported that he had initiated contact with a potential buyer through acquaintances in Oyo Town and arranged a meeting prior to his arrest.

Kareem, however, denied knowledge of the alleged diversion. He indicated that he had recently begun working with Monday after his restaurant business failed and was unaware of any intentions to sell the goods illegally.

The consignment owner, Comrade Gabriel Abba, Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (Heavy Duty Trucks) in Kaduna, expressed relief over the recovery of the goods. Abba revealed that he had contracted the driver for the delivery after he presented himself as a legitimate transporter. The driver had received funding for fuel and travel expenses but began providing misleading updates about his whereabouts, prompting Abba’s concern.

Abba reported that he was alerted by the police regarding the recovery of the goods and the arrest of the suspects and praised the Oyo State Police Command for their prompt action, which he said prevented major financial losses.

Authorities stated that investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to face charges in court upon completion of the inquiry.

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