A 42-year-old man, Musibau Yekini, was on Thursday arraigned before an Osogbo Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing a cutting machine.

Mr Yekini pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge bordering on theft and breach of public peace.

The Prosecutor, ASP Akintunde Jacob, told the court that the defendant committed the offence on June 16, 2020, at about 5:00 p.m. at Dagbolu area of Osogbo.

Mr Jacob said that the defendant allegedly collected a cutting machine belonging to one Olaiya Samaila under the pretext of repairing it but failed to return it.

“The incident led to public disturbance before the police intervened and the defendant was arrested and brought to court,” he said.

He said that the offence contravened Section 381 and punishable under Sections 390(9), 249(4) and 419 of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Vol. II, Laws of Osun, 2002.

The defence counsel, Najite Okobie, prayed the court to grant the defendant bail in liberal terms.

The Magistrate, A. Daramola, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties in like sum.

Daramola said that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide evidence of tax payment and passport-sized photographs.

The case was adjourned to February 24, for hearing.

(NAN)