The Edo State Police Command has recovered two suspected stolen vehicles and arrested suspects linked to the alleged theft during a routine stop-and-search operation in Benin City.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoadem, operatives attached to the Textile Mill Road Division intercepted an ash-coloured Daihatsu Hijet minibus with registration number GBZ 646 YK along Siluko Road on June 22, 2026.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle’s documents were allegedly forged. Further findings showed that the vehicle belonged to Dr. Timothy Etinosa, who had entrusted it to Emmanuel Afolayan under a hire-purchase agreement. Police said Afolayan allegedly absconded with the vehicle in 2024, forged its documents, and sold it to another buyer.
The driver, identified as 46-year-old Ezikiel Aguele, was arrested and later assisted investigators in tracking down the principal suspect, Emmanuel Afolayan. The operation also led to the recovery of another vehicle allegedly stolen through a similar scheme.
Police said both suspects made confessional statements and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Commending the officers involved, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, described the operation as a testament to the effectiveness of stop-and-search policing in preventing crime, recovering stolen property, and apprehending criminal suspects.
He also urged members of the public to remain law-abiding and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to strengthen the fight against crime across Edo State.
