Two docked over alleged N3.68m theft in Ondo

By Boye Oyeyemi

Two men, Samuel Augustine and Umar Abdulhamid, have been arraigned before an Akure Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State over the alleged theft and receipt of stolen property valued at N3.68m.

The defendants were brought before Chief Magistrate Sunday Adepoju on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen property following their arrest in connection with an alleged theft at Adedipe Adeluyi Plaza, Arakale, Akure.

The prosecutor, Akintimehin Nelson, told the court that Augustine allegedly stole a generator, electrical wires, an air-conditioner compressor, iron burglary proof and an umbrella belonging to one Odimayomi Taye between January and June 2026.

Nelson further alleged that Augustine sold the stolen iron burglary proof, valued at N350,000, to Abdulhamid, who allegedly received it knowing it had been unlawfully obtained.

According to the prosecution, the offences are contrary to the provisions of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State.

The court also engaged an interpreter, Olawale Ogbagi, to interpret the proceedings for Abdulhamid, who understands only the Hausa language. However, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate Adepoju admitted each defendant to bail in the sum of N800,000 with one surety in the sum of N750,000, directing that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction, provide evidence of tax payment for the current year, possess valid national identification and have their contact details verified by a court official.

The magistrate therefore adjourned the case until July 14, 2026, for definite hearing.