The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspected serial fraudsters, Gbenga Olubade, 42, and Oluwaseun Adeoye, 50, for their alleged involvement in a taxi-related theft incident in Ibadan. According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the arrest was made following a distress call received on November 4, 2026, at about 9:30 a.m. from a concerned citizen. The call reported a confrontation between a commercial taxi driver and a passenger at TCTC Junction, Idi Ope, along Eleyele Road, Ibadan.
The incident occurred on October 1, 2026, when the female passenger boarded a Micra taxi near Unity Hospital, Eleyele, heading towards Onireke, Ibadan. Under unclear circumstances, she found herself in the Oje area of the city, where she discovered that her iPhone 11 Pro, valued at ₦240,000, alongside cash of ₦2,500 and clothing worth ₦10,000, were missing. The total value of the missing items was ₦252,500. The complainant recognized the two occupants of the taxi when she sighted them on November 4, 2026, while attempting to board a commercial vehicle.
The suspects were apprehended by road users who assisted in detaining them before handing them over to the police. Following their apprehension, the two suspects had their statements obtained, during which they confessed to the allegations. The Police Command has commenced further investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether the suspects have been involved in other similar criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, has reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant when boarding commercial vehicles, promptly report suspicious activities, and provide credible information that could assist the police in identifying and dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.
The incident highlights the need for caution when using commercial vehicles, especially in unfamiliar areas. The police have advised residents to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior. The Command’s efforts to curb crime and protect citizens have been commended by residents.
The suspects are currently in custody, and the police are working to determine the extent of their involvement in other similar incidents. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as they become available. The police have assured the public that they will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is served.
The Oyo State Police Command’s swift response to the incident has been praised by residents, who are hopeful that it will lead to a reduction in crime in the area. The Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property has been reaffirmed, and residents are urged to cooperate with the police to ensure a safer environment.
Key points
- The suspects, Gbenga Olubade and Oluwaseun Adeoye, have confessed to the allegations.
- The incident occurred on October 1, 2026, and the suspects were arrested on November 4, 2026.
- The stolen items included an iPhone 11 Pro valued at ₦240,000, cash of ₦2,500, and clothing worth ₦10,000.
