The Ondo State Police Command has arrested Bamidele Rowell Lodi for allegedly buying N100,000 worth of fuel without payment and for stealing his employer’s vehicle in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The arrest was made on Friday, October 9, 2026, after police operatives from Isua Division and personnel of the Nigerian Army intercepted the suspect at a checkpoint in Auga, following a distress call received at about 11:59 a.m. from one Akin Thomas in Epinmi.
Thomas had reported that a motorist purchased Premium Motor Spirit worth N100,000 and drove off without paying after allegedly distracting the fuel attendant by asking him to fetch water.
Police said operatives immediately mounted roadblocks and began a pursuit. The suspect diverted onto the Ise-Ikare Road on sighting the police, but officers sustained the chase and activated collaboration with Army personnel at the Auga checkpoint, leading to his arrest.
Preliminary investigation linked the vehicle in his possession to a theft case in Port Harcourt. Investigators compared its chassis number with that of a vehicle reported stolen from his employer and found a match.
Intelligence indicates the suspect was employed as a security guard by the vehicle owner in Port Harcourt and allegedly fled with the vehicle.
The recovered vehicle and the suspect are in custody as investigations continue to verify ownership and determine if he is linked to other crimes.
Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, commended operatives of Isua Division and Army personnel at the Auga checkpoint for their prompt response and inter-agency cooperation.
He said the Command will continue to strengthen intelligence gathering and partnership with sister agencies, and urged the public to report suspicious activities.
The Command reiterated that Ondo State will not be allowed to become a safe haven for criminals.
