By Biyi Akinnodi, Ondo

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An ex-serviceman, Godwin Ayin, has been arraigned before a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ondo, for allegedly stealing shovels, a rake, and an arch saw belonging to one Akinloose Bamidele.

Ayin, 57, was charged with breach of peace and felony for allegedly stealing three shovels valued at ₦19,500, one digging hoe worth ₦13,000, a rake priced at ₦7,500, and an arch saw with a blade worth ₦22,000—all valued at ₦62,000 in total.

According to the charge sheet, the incident occurred on February 4, 2025, at Akinjagunla Street, Ojojo Road, Ondo.

The prosecution alleged that the defendant loitered around Bamidele’s block industry under the guise of searching for a security job before unlawfully carting away the items.

The offences were said to contravene Sections 249(d), 383, and 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Volume 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

At the hearing, Ayin pleaded not guilty to both charges.

The prosecutor, Supol Bernard Olagbayi, informed the court that he intended to call two witnesses and requested time to review the case file.

The defendant’s counsel, A.O. Iro-Aye, applied for bail.

Magistrate O.A. Omofolarin granted Ayin bail in the sum of ₦500,000, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must be blood relatives, provide evidence of tax clearance, two recent passport photographs, and a valid means of identification.

Until he meets the bail conditions, the court ordered that Ayin be remanded at Segede Correctional Centre.

The case was adjourned to March 11, 2025.