Lagos Police smash gang of car vandals, recover exhibits
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested members of a syndicate allegedly behind car vandalism in highbrow estates across the state. Three of the suspects, Obinna Okeke, 28, Emmanuel Anyanwu,
- By Precious Igbonwelundu
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested members of a syndicate allegedly behind car vandalism in highbrow estates across the state.
Three of the suspects, Obinna Okeke, 28, Emmanuel Anyanwu, 38, and Joshua Nkemdirim, 31, were arrested at the wee hours of yesterday at a popular estate in Lekki where they allegedly pretended to be security operatives to gain access before descending on vehicles parked by sleeping residents.
The Nation gathered that eight other members of the syndicate were arrested last year and charged to court, after the police investigated public outcry about the removal of brain boxes, other expensive auto parts from parked vehicles in gated estates by suspected armed robbers.
Briefing reporters at the command headquarters yesterday, the police boss said findings showed that the suspects usually armed themselves with Mercedes Jack which they fabricated to look like a rifle, adding that when they hit a spanner on it, it would sound as though someone was cocking a gun.
Jimoh said they were arrested around 4am, adding that they were usually disguised in fake security outfits.
“This gang has used this guise to enter into some estates and vandalised Toyota brand vehicles such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650 Jeep, Mercedes Benz, and other SUVs.
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“They concentrate on the removal of brainboxes, wiring, side mirrors, tapping glasses, control devices, and other expensive car components,” he said.
The suspects arrested corroborated the crime and are assisting the police detectives in the further investigation of the case, he said, adding that efforts have been intensified to arrest other members of the gang for investigation and prosecution.
The police boss said during interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of a criminal syndicate that specialised in vandalising vehicles within Lagos state and its environs.
He warned estate managers and guards against opening their gates to people who claim to be security operatives at odd hours without due diligence.
“First conduct your verification. Ask for identification. In addition to basic verification, residents are urged to collaborate with the Police by contacting the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) covering their area to confirm the authenticity of any such security personnel before granting them
access into their estates.
“Where there is any doubt, such persons should be referred to the nearest police division,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command,Olohundare Jimoh, enjoined residents and estate management to remain vigilant, collaborate with their DPO,
and make use of the command’s emergency numbers.
He assured that together, through vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting, safety and security of communities in the state would be strengthened
