Ogun Police Recover Stolen Toyota Camry From Ifo Hotel, Arrest One Suspect

Operatives of the Ifo Division of the Ogun State Police Command have recovered a stolen 2016 Toyota Camry from a hotel in Ifo, less than eight hours after the vehicle was reported missing.

The police also arrested one suspect in connection with the incident, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend another suspect who allegedly fled from the scene.

According to a statement issued by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babasayi, the vehicle belonged to an Indian national based at the Ilupeju Industrial Estate in Lagos.

The vehicle was allegedly stolen on September 9, 2026, by the owner’s driver, Waidi Olaide Kolawale, who had reportedly been employed only two days earlier.

The police said Kolawale told his employer that he was taking the vehicle to a nearby vulcaniser to repair a tyre but allegedly absconded with the car.

Following the report, the vehicle was electronically tracked to the Ifo area, with the information relayed to the Divisional Police Officer, Ifo Division, CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi.

The DPO reportedly analysed the available intelligence and deployed surveillance and anti-robbery operatives to track the vehicle.

The operatives followed the vehicle through several locations before locating it at a hotel in Ifo at about 8:30 p.m.

The police said Kolawale fled after sighting the officers, taking the ignition key with him, while his alleged accomplice, Monday Adetunji, was arrested at the scene.

Preliminary investigation, according to the Command, showed that the suspects had allegedly approached a mechanic to remove the vehicle’s catalyst, but the mechanic declined.

The recovered vehicle has been secured by the police, while investigation continues to apprehend the fleeing suspect and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Ogun State Police Command said the recovery demonstrated its technology-driven and intelligence-led approach to policing, while also highlighting the importance of prompt reporting and coordinated police response.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Ifo operatives for their professionalism, vigilance and swift response.

The Command also advised vehicle owners to use reliable tracking devices and additional anti-theft measures, including steering locks and tyre locks.

It further urged members of the public to exercise caution when entrusting vehicles, property, homes or businesses to others, stressing the importance of due diligence.

Hoteliers were also advised to strengthen guest and vehicle verification, maintain accurate records and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities to the authorities.