The Ondo State Police Command has achieved another operational success in its ongoing fight against vehicle theft and related crimes, with the recovery of a suspected stolen Toyota RAV4 and the arrest of a suspect by operatives of the Fagun Division in Akure.
Intelligence-Led Operation
In a statement on Friday, the command's spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that the operation was intelligence-driven and executed on Monday, 12th May 2026. The police acted on credible information about a suspicious attempt to register a Toyota RAV4 believed to be stolen.
Operatives quickly mobilized to the location for discreet monitoring and prompt action. At the scene, they apprehended the suspect, identified as Ayodabo Temitope, a 39-year-old male, while he was allegedly attempting to process registration documents for the vehicle under questionable circumstances.
Investigation and Recovery
Following the arrest, detectives began preliminary interrogation and expanded their investigation, which led them to the Ifetedo area, where the vehicle was successfully recovered.
“Further investigation revealed that the recovered Toyota RAV4 belongs to one Sanni Halilulai of Ireshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State. The owner was immediately contacted and confirmed that the vehicle had been stolen from where it was parked on 17th September 2025,” Jimoh stated.
The recovered vehicle has been secured by the police as investigations continue to determine the full circumstances of the theft, possible alteration of vehicle particulars, and the involvement of other members of the criminal network.
Vehicle Released to Owner
After proper verification of the vehicle particulars and ownership documents, the Toyota RAV4 was released to its rightful owner. The suspect remains in custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
According to Jimoh, the owner expressed profound gratitude to the Ondo State Police Command for the swift response, professionalism, and diligent efforts of the operatives involved.
Commendation from Police Commissioner
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the professionalism, vigilance, and swift response of the operatives. He noted that this success demonstrates the command's commitment to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, and property protection.
CP Lawal also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, for his unwavering support and strategic leadership, adding that the IGP's experience from previous service in Ondo State has strengthened the command's operational capacity.
The commissioner reassured the public that the command remains determined to dismantle criminal syndicates involved in vehicle theft and trafficking of stolen vehicles across the state. He emphasized that Ondo State will not be a safe haven for criminals and that all perpetrators will be tracked, apprehended, and prosecuted.
CP Lawal urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, stressing that public cooperation is vital for strengthening security and combating crime in Ondo State.
