Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a company driver and his accomplice for attempting to smuggle a stolen 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus into Benin Republic.
The suspects, Seun Lawal, 46, and Ademola Oriyomi, 38, were intercepted around 11pm on June 12, 2026, at Babaloke area in Idiroko based on credible intelligence. Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi said CSP Adejuwon Ariyo led a team that immobilised the vehicle by deflating one of its tyres, preventing it from crossing the border. The stolen bus was successfully recovered at the scene. Preliminary investigations revealed that Lawal conspired with Oriyomi to steal and sell the bus in Benin Republic. The suspects admitted the proceeds were meant to facilitate their relocation abroad.
The suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue to uncover possible links to broader cross-border vehicle theft syndicates operating along Nigeria’s southwestern borders. Ogun State Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism. He reiterated the command’s commitment to border security and proactive policing, urging members of the public to report suspicious movements.
This arrest highlights the persistent challenge of cross-border vehicle theft and smuggling, which deprives Nigerian businesses and individuals of valuable assets while fuelling criminal economies in the sub-region. It comes amid heightened government crackdowns on unregistered and stolen vehicles, as announced by the Inspector-General of Police. Security analysts link such crimes to sophisticated syndicates exploiting porous borders and weak documentation systems.
The successful interception demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing but also exposes gaps that criminals continue to exploit. Stakeholders call for enhanced technological surveillance at border points, closer collaboration with Benin Republic authorities, and stricter vehicle registration protocols to curb the menace. The case serves as a deterrent and reinforces public trust in police efforts to combat organised crime.
Further probes are expected to reveal if the suspects have connections to larger networks, potentially leading to more arrests in the coming weeks.
