The police authorities in Ogun State have apprehended three suspects involved in a violent motorcycle theft in the Owode Egba area. The suspects were identified as Adegboyega Sarafa (42), Soliu Bankole (38), and 46-year-old Sogo Idris, also known as Agbara, were arrested following a tip-off from a concerned resident.
The command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the arrests to reporters on Tuesday. She revealed that the suspects had assaulted and robbed a 60-year-old man, Rotimi Bajela, taking his money, mobile phone, and Bajaj motorcycle.
The incident occurred while Bajela was riding along the Ajura/Olojo/Shiun road, travelling from Ajura Township towards Ijemon Kukoyi Village. According to Odutola, the assailants ambushed Bajela, emerging from the bushes and attacking him with a gun and a machete. When their gun failed to injure or kill the victim, the attackers resorted to striking him with the machete on his head and neck.
“On October 11, 2024, a concerned resident provided valuable information that led the police to apprehend the suspects who attacked Rotimi Bajela,” said Odutola. She added that the attack had left Bajela severely injured, but the police were able to recover the items used in the crime, including a locally-made gun and machete.
“All three suspects were arrested on Monday, and the locally-made gun and machete used during the attack have been recovered. The suspects are currently being interrogated, and the crime scene in the Olojo Village bush area has been examined, with photographs taken. Further updates will be shared with the public,” she stated.
Odutola also issued a warning to commercial motorcycle riders and owners, urging them to remain vigilant to avoid becoming victims of armed robbery in the region.
The Ogun State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to maintaining security and bringing offenders to justice. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further updates on the case.
