By Oluwadamilola Akinduro
Three suspects accused of serial shop-breaking and theft of goods worth over N1.1 million, have been arraigned at the Amotekun Court sitting in Akure.
The suspects, Bukunmi Jegede, Sunday Orimolade, and Segun Ogunmadeji, appeared before Magistrate T.I. Ayodele James.
They are facing a seven-count charge, which include conspiracy, burglary, and stealing.
State prosecutor, P.O. Nwafor, explained that the defendants allegedly broke into the residence of one Fumilola Jegede and stole items, including hair weaves valued at N86,000, dreadlock weaves worth N16,000, hair attachments worth N55,000, body creams valued at N73,000, and perfumes valued at N40,500.
In a separate incident, the suspects were alleged to have targeted the shop of one Justina Adeyeye, where they allegedly made away with a large pot set worth N55,000, two medium-sized pot sets valued at N43,000, eight containers of chemicals worth N8,000, two bottles of wine valued at N4,000, and other provisions, total valued at N200,000.
They also allegedly broke into one Sunday Olayide’s shop, and allegedly stole a block vibrator with a tray, valued at N280,000.
The prosecutor told the court that the offences were committed on October 24, 2024, around 10 pm at Oke Adu, Akure, and argued that the crimes violate Sections 516, 383, 390(9), and 413 of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006.
The suspects pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The prosecutor requested an adjournment for more time to review the case file.
Defence counsel, O.O. Adedoyin, did not oppose the request. But he urged the court to grant the defendants bail on favourable terms, assuring that they would provide reliable sureties.
Magistrate Ayodele James granted N500,000 bail to each suspect, with two sureties in like sum.
The bail conditions stipulated that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction, deposit N200,000, present an affidavit of means, and provide two passport photographs.
The suspects were unable to meet the bail conditions, hence they were remanded in Amotekun custody.
The case was adjourned till December 17, 2024, for further hearing.