By Oluwadamilola Akinduro

A 35-year old mechanic, Odunayo Oladimeji, has been remanded in police custody by an Akure Magistrates’ Court over an alleged N2 million fraud involving the repair of a Mercedes Benz C300.

Oladimeji, whose residential address was not disclosed, was arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on fraud, stealing and malicious damage by the Ondo State Police Command.

Police prosecutor, Taiwo Oniyere, informed the court that the defendant committed the alleged offences on January 15, 2025, at about 11:00 a.m. in Akure.

Oniyere alleged that the defendant collected N2 million from one Samuel Obi under the pretence of fixing his Mercedes Benz C300, but failed to carry out the repair, diverted the money to personal use and went ahead to dismantle the vehicle by removing the engine and using some of its parts to repair another car.

According to the prosecutor, the offences contravene Sections 383, 390(9), 419 and 451 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Oniyere said the prosecution intends to call two witnesses to prove its case and requested an adjournment to enable proper review of the case file.

The defence counsel, Barrister O.lwabi, urged the court to grant bail to his client in liberal terms, assuring the court of the defendant’s readiness to meet any condition set by the court and to provide reliable sureties.

Ruling on the bail application, Magistrate Olusola Olujobi granted the defendant bail in the sum of N2 million with two sureties in like sum.

The court further stated that the sureties must reside within the jurisdiction of the court, submit two passport photographs, an affidavit of means, and tax clearance certificates.

Oladimeji was, however, remanded in police custody for failure to meet the bail conditions.

The case was adjourned till June 4, 2025, for continuation of hearing.