Man, 30, In Court Over N1.4m Goods Theft

The police in Lagos on Thursday arraigned a 30-year-old businessman, Chinwe Alilionu, over an alleged burglary and stealing of items valued at N1.4million.
Alilionu, who resides at No. 1, Onadeko, St., Lawanson, Lagos, appeared before an Oshodi Magistrates’ Court, in Lagos, on a three-count charge of conspiracy, burglary and stealing.
The Prosecutor, Cpl. Kehinde Olatunde, told the court that the accused and two others at large, committed the offence on June 11, at the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), Onigbongbo, Lagos.
He said that the accused and the others, burgled the building of the VIO, and stole valuable items valued at N1.4 million.
“The accused burgled the VIO premises around 7.30 p.m., tied the hands and legs of the security guard, one Mr Abdulahi Fatal, and also covered his face and threw him at the backyard.
“They vandalised two Hilux pickup, two VIO patrol vans and eight other vehicles, impounded by the officers.
Olatunde alleged that the accused carted away a computer, printer, 21-inch colour television, 21- inch LCD screen monitor, and laptop.
“The accused also stole seven brain boxes, light and body chrome, right and left side window glasses, door lights, two rear lights, car radios, metal protector, four side mirrors and other accessories.”
According to the prosecutor, the accused was apprehended on July 3 by the anti-crime patrol team, Mosafejo Division, with a bag containing some of those stolen items.
“The accused was arrested and the security guard identified him as one of the three men who attacked him and carted away those items,” he said.
Olatunde said that the offence contravened Sections 285, 305 and 410 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.
Section 305 provides for seven years imprisonment for offender of burglary, while Sections 285 and 410 prescribe three years imprisonment each, for stealing and conspiracy.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The Magistrate, Mr Akeem Fashola, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100, 000, with two sureties in like sum.
He adjourned the case to August 6 for mention.