Ondo Police Arrest Hotel Employee For Stealing Customer’s N11m Gold Chain

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have apprehended a staff member of a prominent hotel in Akure for allegedly stealing a gold chain valued at N11 million from a customer.

The suspect, identified as Temitope Ajayi, was employed at Dejavu Hotel, Alagbaka, Akure, and is reported to have committed the alleged theft on June 22, 2025. He was arrested a few days ago following investigations by the police.

Speaking during a press briefing at the state police headquarters over the weekend, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to recover the stolen jewellery.

The Police Commissioner also revealed another case involving one Gbenga Ojo, who reportedly stole a gold necklace worth N5,155,000 and sold it to Garuba Jubril for N3,084,000 on August 13, 2025. Both suspects are currently in police custody.

Commissioner Lawal highlighted the command’s recent achievements in crime prevention, detection, and prosecution, stating:

“Guided by the strategic vision and people-centred policing philosophy of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, the Ondo State Police Command has continued to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and professionalism in safeguarding the lives and property of our citizens.”

He further provided updates on other criminal cases, including armed robbery and murder:

“Operatives of the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) cracked a chilling case of armed robbery and murder in Ondo town. A young motorcyclist, Nwike Sabbat (25 years), was brutally killed, and his motorcycle was stolen. Swift police action led to the arrest of three suspects—Adeife Adewumi ‘M’, Matthew Johnson ‘M’, and Diisu Sunday ‘M’—who all confessed to the crime. Recovered exhibits include two cut-to-size barrel guns, one live cartridge, and one expended cartridge. Further investigation exposed their arms supplier, Chief Kogbona (87 years), from whom ten live cartridges were recovered.”

On August 27, 2025, operatives of B’ Division, Owo, arrested two notorious cultists terrorising the Isuada community. The suspects, Adams Precious (25 years) and Kayode Alana (26 years), were transferred to the Anti-Cultism Section for discreet investigation, providing relief to residents of the area.

Commissioner Lawal also noted the success of a recent special operation targeting the illegal possession and use of vehicles and motorcycles in criminal activities. This proactive measure has significantly curtailed crimes committed using stolen or unauthorised vehicles, dealing a heavy blow to criminal elements in the state.