By Oluwadamilola Akinduro

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A 48-year old tanker driver, Adekunle Saheed, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing petroleum products worth N50 million.

Saheed was brought before the court by the Ondo State Police Command on a three-count charge bordering on robbery and theft.

The prosecution, led by Augustine Omhenimhen, told the court that the defendant committed the offence at FUTA North Gate, Akure, where he allegedly dispossessed one Kayode Adeagbo of his tanker truck, loaded with 50,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

The fuel was said to belong to one Sikiru Olawuwo.

Omhenimhen further alleged that Saheed was armed with a cutlass when he carried out the act, thereby violating Sections 401, 402(1), and 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

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

The prosecutor informed the court that he had three witnesses and requested time to review the case file before trial.

Defence counsel, Lawrence Onu, did not oppose the request but pleaded with the court to grant his client bail on liberal terms, promising that he would not jump bail and would provide credible sureties.

Magistrate O.T. Lebi, granted the prosecutor’s request and ordered that the defendant be remanded in police custody.

The case was adjourned to February 28, 2025, for trial.