What happened in Idiroko reflects more than a routine interception, it tells a deeper story of trust in security and the quiet weight of vigilance.
A 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus is not a small or hidden object. It is large, visible, and difficult to move unnoticed. Yet, the suspects allegedly still attempted to steal it and advance out through the boarder, believing the opportunity outweighed the risk.
From the moment intelligence was received, operatives of the Ogun State Police Command responded swiftly. The response was calm but firm, coordinated yet decisive, closing every gap the suspects hoped to exploit.
In a decisive move, the vehicle was immobilised and the attempt brought to a halt before it could succeed.
The incident is a reminder that while criminal intent may be bold, timely intelligence and swift policing remain stronger.
PRESS RELEASE
OGUN POLICE DEMOBILISE STOLEN COMPANY 28-SEATER TOYOTA COASTER BUS, FOIL CROSS-BORDER SMUGGLING PLOT, ARREST COMPANY DRIVER AND HIS GUARANTOR
Operatives attached to Idiroko Division of the Ogun State Police Command, led by CSP Adejuwon Ariyo, the Divisional Police Officer, have foiled a cross-border vehicle trafficking attempt and arrested two suspects, Seun Lawal ‘M’, aged 46 years, and Ademola Oriyomi ‘M’, aged 38 years, over a conspiracy involving a company driver and his guarantor to smuggle a 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus, earlier declared stolen from Lagos, into the Benin Republic for illegal disposal.
The operation was based on credible intelligence received at about 11:00 p.m. on June 12, 2026, indicating that the suspects had positioned the said vehicle at Babaloke area of Idiroko and were preparing to move it across the international border under false pretence.
Acting swiftly on the information, CSP Adejuwon Ariyo mobilised and led a surveillance team to the location, where operatives intercepted the suspects in the course of executing the cross-border movement. In a decisive tactical response, the operatives demobilised the vehicle by shooting one of its tyres, effectively immobilising it and preventing its escape across the border.
The prompt intervention led to the arrest of the two suspects and the recovery of the stolen 28-seater Toyota Coaster bus at the scene.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Seun Lawal, a driver, conspired with Ademola Oriyomi, his guarantor, to steal and sell the vehicle in the Benin Republic. The suspects admitted that the proceeds were intended to facilitate their relocation after the illegal transaction.
The suspects are currently in custody while investigation continues to uncover possible links to broader cross-border vehicle theft syndicates.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, commends the professionalism, vigilance, and tactical precision of CSP Adejuwon Ariyo and the operatives of Idiroko Division, whose intelligence-led response ensured the interception, demobilisation, and recovery of the stolen vehicle.
The CP reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to proactive policing, strengthened border security operations, and sustained efforts aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action within Ogun State and its border corridors.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
For emergencies and credible information, residents are advised to contact the Ogun State Police Command through: Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111
Emergency Lines: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, 0708 497 2994
DSP OLUSEYI B. BABASEYI, anipr
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
OGUN STATE COMMAND
ELEWERAN, ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE
13TH JUNE, 2026