The Ondo State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough in its sustained efforts to combat vehicle theft, trafficking of stolen automobiles, and other related criminal activities, following the recovery of a suspected stolen Toyota RAV4 and the arrest of one suspect by operatives of the Fagun Division, Akure.

In a statement on Friday, the spokesman of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the operation, which was intelligence-driven, was carried out on Monday, 12th May 2026, after receiving credible information concerning a suspicious attempt to register a Toyota RAV4 believed to have been stolen.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the operatives immediately mobilized to the location for discreet monitoring and prompt intervention.

Upon arrival at the scene, the suspect, later identified as Ayodabo Temitope (male), aged 39 years, was apprehended while allegedly attempting to process registration documentation for the vehicle under suspicious circumstances.

Following the arrest, detectives commenced preliminary interrogation and expanded investigation, which subsequently led operatives to Ifetedo area where the vehicle was successfully recovered.

“Further investigation revealed that the recovered Toyota RAV4 belongs to one Sanni Halilulai of Ireshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State. The owner was immediately contacted and he confirmed that the vehicle had earlier been stolen from where it was parked on 17th September 2025,” Jimoh said.

The recovered vehicle has since been secured by the police as investigation continues to determine the full circumstances surrounding the theft, possible alteration of vehicle particulars and the involvement of other members of the criminal network believed to be connected to the case.

Following proper verification of the vehicle particulars and relevant ownership documents, the recovered Toyota RAV4 has since been released to its rightful owner accordingly, while the suspect currently in custody will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigation.

According to Jimoh, the owner of the vehicle, while taking possession of the recovered Toyota RAV4, expressed profound appreciation to the Ondo State Police Command for the swift response, professionalism, and diligent efforts of the operatives involved in the recovery operation.

The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has commended the professionalism, vigilance and swift response of the operatives involved in the operation.

He noted that the success recorded further demonstrates the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention strategies and the protection of property within Ondo State.

CP Lawal expressed profound appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, for his unwavering support, strategic leadership, and continuous guidance. He noted that the IGP’s wealth of experience, particularly from his previous service in Ondo State, has continued to strengthen the Command’s operational capacity and enhance its crime-fighting efforts.

The commissioner further reassured members of the public that the command remains resolute in dismantling criminal syndicates involved in vehicle theft, trafficking of stolen vehicles, and other related organized crimes across the State.

He emphasized that Ondo State will not serve as a safe haven for criminals, adding that all perpetrators of crime will be diligently tracked, apprehended, and made to face the full weight of the law.

The CP also urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, stressing that public cooperation remains a vital component in strengthening security architecture and combating criminal activities across Ondo State.