The Ondo State Police Command has successfully apprehended a suspected vehicle thief, Bamidele Rowell Lodi, who allegedly stole a vehicle from his employer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The arrest occurred following a distress call regarding a fuel theft incident on Friday, October 9.

According to reports, the suspect had purchased Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) worth N100,000 but drove off without paying. Akin Thomas, the fuel attendant, alerted the police after Lodi allegedly distracted him by requesting water, which allowed him to flee without settling the bill.

Upon receiving the complaint, officers from the Isua Division of the Ondo State Police quickly mobilized and set up route blocks to pursue the suspect. In an attempt to evade capture, Lodi diverted onto the Ise-Ikare Road. However, the police maintained their pursuit and coordinated efforts with personnel from the Nigerian Army stationed at a checkpoint in Auga.

This collaboration proved effective as the suspect was intercepted and arrested. During preliminary investigations, police discovered that Lodi was in possession of a vehicle reported stolen from his employer in Port Harcourt. The police confirmed this by matching the chassis number of the vehicle with that of the stolen car provided during the investigation.

Further inquiries revealed that Lodi had been employed as a security guard by the vehicle's owner before allegedly stealing it and fleeing to Ondo State. Both the suspect and the recovered vehicle are currently in police custody as investigations continue to ascertain the full details surrounding the theft and to determine if Lodi is linked to other criminal activities.

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Felix Ohagwu, praised the officers from the Isua Division for their swift action and professionalism. He also commended the Nigerian Army personnel for their timely support, emphasizing the significance of inter-agency cooperation and actionable intelligence in effectively combating crime across state lines.