By Bukola Olamona
Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have recovered a stolen Toyota Highlander and arrested two suspects in connection with the incident in Kajola.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade and made available to The Hope, the command said the vehicle, a 2012 model Toyota Highlander with registration number KSF 433 JR, was reported stolen on October 4, 2025, at about 6:00 p.m.
The complainant, Mr. Olaolu Benson of Lege via Kajola, alleged that the suspects, identified as Oluwajobi Ezekiel and Patrick Francis, deceived him by claiming that one of the tyres was deflated and requested to take the vehicle to gauge it.
After he handed over the keys, the suspects allegedly took the vehicle to a nearby filling station where they refuelled and attempted to drive it to Ondo town to sell it.
Ayanlade said police operatives from Kajola Division, acted on intelligence and arrested the suspects before they could sell the vehicle. The SUV was recovered in good condition.
The PPRO added that preliminary investigation indicated that the crime was premeditated.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, praised the Kajola Divisional Police team for their prompt response, adding that the operation reflected the command’s commitment to effective policing and intelligence gathering.
He assured residents that the command would ensure justice is served and urged members of the public to exercise caution when entrusting their vehicles or valuables to others.