A security guard in the Ago Okota area of Lagos State has been detained by the Lagos State Police Command following the theft of a vehicle from an estate’s premises. The vehicle’s owner, Dr. Kehinde Fadairo, a medical practitioner, reported the incident after discovering his car missing on Monday morning.
Vehicle Theft Incident
Dr. Fadairo narrated that he had parked his vehicle on the estate premises on Sunday night. However, when he prepared to leave for work the next morning, he realized the car was gone.
“I parked the vehicle inside the estate before going to bed on Sunday. When I woke up on Monday to go to work, I realized my vehicle was missing,” Fadairo said.
He raised the alarm and reported the matter to the estate chairman and Chief Security Officer (CSO). Upon inquiry, the guard on duty overnight admitted to opening the estate gate for individuals who drove the car out, claiming he did not know who they were.
“It is surprising how my vehicle was stolen, especially since I had installed security features, including a steering lock,” Fadairo lamented.
Guard Arrested
Following the incident, the guard on duty was taken into custody for questioning. A senior police officer familiar with the case confirmed the arrest but declined to provide further details.
“Yes, it was reported, and the guard was arrested,” the officer stated during a telephone conversation.
The Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, had not responded to inquiries about the case as of the time of filing this report.
Related Vehicle Theft Case
The incident mirrors another vehicle theft reported on November 15, 2024, involving a private driver, Emmanuel Bright, in Ogun State. Bright allegedly stole a Toyota Rav 4 SUV belonging to his employer, 78-year-old retiree Mrs. Deborah Makinde, at T.A. Gardens in Warewa.
Makinde recounted that Bright had sought her permission to wash the car, a request she declined. Later, he deflated the car’s tyre and requested permission to pump it. After being refused again, Bright reportedly drove the vehicle away, despite the supposed deflated tyre.
Rising Concerns Over Vehicle Theft
The theft in Ago Okota adds to growing concerns about vehicle security in residential areas. Despite the presence of security personnel and features like steering locks, incidents like these highlight lapses in vigilance and operational protocols.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and to strengthen collaboration with security personnel to prevent such occurrences. Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command is continuing investigations into the matter to recover the stolen vehicle and determine the guard’s potential involvement.
As vehicle thefts persist, law enforcement and estate management teams are being called upon to enhance security measures and accountability in residential neighborhoods.
