The police on Thursday, charged one Abdullahi Ismaila before a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Wuse, Abuja, over  alleged stealing.

The defendant is standing trial before the Magistrate, Abubakar Sadiq, on charges bordering on stealing.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, Simpa Ibrahim, told the court that the defendant was arrested by  operatives of the Special Tactical Squad (STS), FCT Command, Abuja on March 19.

He alleged that the defendant stole rice, corn, millet, provisions and soft drinks from vehicles and shops within and outside Abuja.

The prosecution alleged that police investigations showed that the defendant was part of a syndicate involved in similar criminal activities.

According to him, several complainants made several reports to the police, of their missing goods, adding that the total value of items stolen from the complainants is estimated at about N10 million.

The offence contravenes the provisions of sections 286 of the Penal Code.

Meanwhile, the defendant told the court that he sells leather bags and  knew nothing about the offence.

Following a bail application by defence counsel, Kate Oyingbo, the court  granted the defendant bail in the sum of  one million naira with one  surety in like sum.

Among others, the court held that the surety must provide his letter of employment, national identity card, voter card and official Identity card.

He added that the surety must depose to an affidavit of means, and directed that his address must be verified by the court’s registrar.

The court adjourned the case until June 29, for hearing. 

(NAN)