By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Osun State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, has arrested two suspects for their alleged involvement in vehicle theft and burglary in Osogbo, the state capital.

The suspects, Sikiru Raheem, 30, and Azeez Afeez, 20, were nabbed in separate incidents following distress calls from victims.

Raheem was apprehended for allegedly stealing a Ford Jeep valued at N7 million, belonging to one Olukokun Morayo. Investigations revealed that he intended to sell the stolen vehicle for N1.5 million, and he reportedly confessed that it was not his first time engaging in such criminal acts.

On his part, Afeez was arrested on February 23, 2025, for breaking into a residential building and carting away valuables, including a standing fan, torchlight, TV cables, solar radio, a bag of bulbs, wires, an MP3 player, and two mobile phones (MPs and Itel A33). The total value of the stolen items was estimated at N420,000, belonging to two victims, Oyagbile Bose and Mrs Adebisi Grace.

Confirming the arrests, the Corps Commander of Osun Amotekun, Dr Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, said the swift response of his men led to the capture of the suspects. He added that the case files had been forwarded to the Attorney General of Osun State for necessary legal action.

Following their arraignment before Magistrate Court 2, Osogbo, on February 27, 2025, both suspects pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against them.

Delivering judgment, Chief Magistrate M.A. Olatunji sentenced Raheem to seven years imprisonment for stealing the vehicle, while Afeez bagged two years for burglary and theft. They were convicted under Sections 390(9), 249, and 412 of the Osun State Criminal Code.

The prosecution, led by Mr Oyedele Akintayo, argued that the convicts’ actions constituted a serious breach of public peace and warranted strict penalties to serve as a deterrent.

In his ruling, Magistrate Olatunji commended Amotekun Corps for its efforts in tackling crime and urged residents to remain vigilant by promptly reporting suspicious activities. He reaffirmed the court’s commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the safety of lives and property in Osun State.