The Ondo State Police Command says it has arrested a 39-year-old suspected car thief, Ayodabo Temitope, and recovered a stolen vehicle linked to him in the Ifetedo area of Akure. 

Abayomi Jimoh, the command’s spokesperson, said in a statement on Friday that the suspect was arrested by operatives of the Fagun division, Akure, on May 12, 2026.

“The operation, which was intelligence-driven, was carried out on Monday, 12th May 2026, after the command received credible information concerning a suspicious attempt to register a Toyota RAV4 believed to have been stolen,” he said.

According to him, operatives immediately mobilised to the location for discreet monitoring and prompt intervention.

“The suspect, later identified as Ayodabo Temitope (male), aged 39 years, was apprehended while allegedly attempting to process registration documentation for the vehicle under suspicious circumstances.

Mr Jimoh added that detectives commenced preliminary interrogation following the arrest.

“Investigation subsequently led operatives to the Ifetedo area where the vehicle was successfully recovered,” he added.

According to the police spokesperson, further investigation revealed that the recovered Toyota RAV4 belongs to Sanni Halilulai of Ireshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State.

“The owner was immediately contacted and he confirmed that the vehicle had earlier been stolen from where it was parked on 17th September 2025,” he said.

Mr Jimoh said the vehicle had been secured while investigation continued to determine the circumstances surrounding the theft, possible alteration of the vehicle’s particulars and the involvement of other members of the suspected criminal network.

He stated that after proper verification of ownership documents, the recovered vehicle had been released to its owner.

According to him, the suspect remains in custody and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

“The owner of the vehicle, while taking possession of the recovered Toyota RAV4, expressed profound appreciation to the Ondo State Police Command for the swift response, professionalism, and diligent efforts of the operatives involved in the recovery operation,” Mr Jimoh added.