Police Arrest Seven Employees, Others Over N20m Beverage Theft in Ondo

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested seven suspects in connection with the theft of beverages valued at N20.45 million from a commercial store in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The arrest was confirmed on Friday in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, noting that the suspects include employees of the victim who allegedly conspired to siphon goods from the store over a two-year period.

The investigation was triggered after the store owner, Mr. Ogunyomi Segun, lodged a complaint at the Ore Divisional Police Headquarters.

He reported that between 2024 and January 3, 2026, he noticed a massive disappearance of stock, including soft drinks, Trophy cans, and other canned beverages, amounting to over N20 million.

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Police detectives immediately swung into action and apprehended the syndicate, who have since confessed to the crime.

The police spokesperson revealed the identities of those arrested, highlighting an internal conspiracy involving key staff members.

Among those apprehended were the complainant’s storekeeper, Oyineke Joseph, and the computer operator, Abioye Yusuf.

Another staff member, Abdullahi Quadir, was also arrested alongside a driver identified simply as Ojewuyi, who allegedly facilitated the movement of the stolen items.

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The operation also led to the arrest of three individuals: Micheal Njoku, Agu Monday, and Ikuemehin Oloruntimilehin, who were identified as the receivers of the illicit goods.

DSP Jimoh stated that the suspects confessed to the crime and clearly detailed the roles each played in the unlawful act, adding that they would be charged in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the detectives for their diligence in cracking the syndicate, noting that the swift arrest reflects the command’s enhanced capacity to combat crime.

The command urged residents to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies to ensure a safer society.