By Peace Udugba
Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have foiled an attempt to smuggle a stolen 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus across the Nigeria-Benin Republic border and arrested two suspects linked to the crime.
The suspects, identified as Seun Lawal, 46, and Ademola Oriyomi, 38, were apprehended by officers attached to the Idiroko Division during an intelligence-led operation coordinated by the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Adejuwon Ariyo.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed credible intelligence received at about 11 p.m. on June 12, 2026. The information indicated that the suspects had positioned the vehicle at the Babaloke area of Idiroko and were preparing to move it into the Benin Republic for illegal disposal.
Acting on the intelligence, CSP Ariyo led a surveillance team to the location, where the suspects were intercepted while attempting to transport the vehicle across the border.
In a tactical move to prevent the vehicle’s escape, police operatives shot one of its tyres, immobilising the bus and successfully halting the smuggling attempt.
The operation resulted in the arrest of the two suspects and the recovery of the stolen Toyota Coaster bus, which had earlier been reported stolen from Lagos.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Lawal, a company driver entrusted with the vehicle, allegedly conspired with Oriyomi, his guarantor, to steal and sell the bus in the Benin Republic.
The suspects reportedly confessed that they intended to use the proceeds from the sale to relocate after completing the illegal transaction.
Police said the suspects remain in custody while investigations continue to determine whether they are connected to a wider cross-border vehicle theft syndicate.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Bode Ojajuni, praised the professionalism, vigilance and tactical efficiency displayed by CSP Ariyo and his team.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to proactive policing, enhanced border security and sustained efforts to prevent criminal activities within Ogun State and its border communities.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies promptly.
