Operatives attached to Idiroko Division of the Nigeria police Command in Ogun State, foiled a cross-border vehicle trafficking attempt by a criminal gangs behind attempt to smuggle a 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus, earlier declared stolen from Lagos State, Nigeria into the Benin Republic for unauthorized disposal.
The Command’s spokesman, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi said during the operation led by CSP Adejuwon Ariyo, the Divisional Police Officer, two suspects identified as Seun Lawal ‘M’, aged 46 years, and Ademola Oriyomi ‘M’, aged 38 years, were nabbed for alleged conspiracy involving a company driver and his guarantor.
The operation, according to him, was based on credible intelligence received at about 11:00 p.m. on June 12, 2026, indicating that the suspects had positioned the said vehicle at Babaloke area of Idiroko and were preparing to move it across the international border under false pretence.
“Acting swiftly on the information, CSP Adejuwon Ariyo mobilised and led a surveillance team to the location, where operatives intercepted the suspects in the course of executing the cross-border movement”, the police spokesman added.
In a decisive tactical response, the operatives demobilised the vehicle by shooting one of its tyres, effectively immobilising it and preventing its escape across the border.
The prompt intervention led to the arrest of the two suspects and the recovery of the stolen 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus at the scene.
He said, “Preliminary investigation revealed that Seun Lawal, a driver, conspired with Ademola Oriyomi, his guarantor, to steal and sell the vehicle in the Benin Republic.
The suspects who are currently in custody while investigation continues to uncover possible links to broader cross-border vehicle theft syndicates, admitted that the proceeds were intended to facilitate their relocation after the illegal transaction, according to the police.
Responding, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the professionalism, vigilance, and tactical precision of CSP Adejuwon Ariyo and the operatives of Idiroko Division, whose intelligence-led response ensured the interception, demobilisation, and recovery of the stolen vehicle.
The CP reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to proactive policing, strengthened border security operations, and sustained efforts aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action within Ogun State and its border corridors.
