By: The daily torch media
A suspected serial church burglar, Kolawole [surname withheld], has disclosed before a magistrates’ court in Ogun State why he and his accomplices repeatedly targeted churches, particularly parishes of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), during a wave of break-ins across parts of the state.
Kolawole, who was arraigned on charges bordering on conspiracy, burglary and stealing, told the court that RCCG churches were often their preferred targets because they usually had valuable items and cash kept within the premises after services and programmes.
According to the prosecution, the defendant and other members of his gang allegedly broke into several churches at different locations in Ogun State between 2023 and 2025, making away with sound systems, musical instruments, generators, laptops and cash offerings.
While narrating how the crimes were carried out, Kolawole reportedly said the group monitored churches, studied their security arrangements and struck mostly at night or in the early hours of the morning when the premises were deserted.
“We robbed many churches, but we focused more on RCCG because they had what we needed,” Kolawole told the court.
Police prosecutors informed the court that Kolawole was arrested following intelligence reports and a tip-off from residents after a failed burglary attempt at an RCCG parish, where security personnel raised an alarm. Subsequent investigations led to the recovery of several items, including speakers, keyboards, cables and other church equipment allegedly linked to earlier robberies.
Kolawole pleaded guilty to some of the charges and appealed to the court for leniency, claiming that financial hardship and unemployment pushed him into crime. He also expressed remorse and promised to reform.
The presiding magistrate ordered that the suspect be remanded in a correctional facility pending the determination of the case and advised religious organisations to improve security around their worship centres to prevent future attacks.
The case was adjourned to a later date for further hearing.
