The Ogun State Police Command has recovered a stolen 2016 Toyota Camry from a hotel in Ifo less than eight hours after it was reported missing, arresting one suspect while intensifying efforts to apprehend another who escaped.

The vehicle, which belonged to an Indian national based at the Ilupeju Industrial Estate in Lagos, was allegedly stolen on 9 September by his driver, Waidi Olaide Kolawale, who had been employed just two days earlier.

According to the command Police Public Relations Officer, DSP, Oluseyi Babaseyi, Kolawale told his employer he was taking the vehicle to a nearby vulcaniser to repair a tyre but allegedly absconded with it.

Babaseyi disclosed that the vehicle was subsequently tracked electronically to the Ifo area, prompting the police to launch a search.

He noted that the Divisional Police Officer, Ifo Division, CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi, reportedly deployed surveillance and anti-robbery operatives after analysing the intelligence provided.

He further stated that the officers followed the vehicle through several locations before finding it at a hotel in Ifo at about 8.30 pm.

The Police image maker explained that Kolawale fled on sighting the officers, taking the ignition key with him, while his alleged accomplice, Monday Adetunji, was arrested at the scene.

Babaseyi maintained that preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects had allegedly approached a mechanic to remove the vehicle’s catalytic converter, but the mechanic refused, according to the police.

Police said efforts were also under way to arrest Kolawale and establish the full circumstances surrounding the theft, and the recovered vehicle has been secured as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Ifo operatives for what he described as their professionalism, vigilance, and swift response.

He said the recovery demonstrated the command’s intelligence-led and technology-driven approach to policing and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

The police further urged vehicle owners to install reliable tracking devices and use additional anti-theft measures, including steering and tyre locks.

They also urged members of the public to exercise greater care when entrusting vehicles, property or access to their homes and businesses to others, stressing the need for due diligence.

The police also advised that the hotelier should strengthen guest and vehicle verification procedures, maintain accurate records and promptly report suspicious people, vehicles or activities.