On Monday, a 41-year-old mechanic, Saleem Olatewaju, appeared before an Ota Magistrates’ Court in Ogun for stealing a compressor, top cylinder, and other spare parts worth N900,000.

Mr Olanrewaju faces a two-count charge of stealing and malicious damage.

The prosecutor, E. O. Adaraloye, told the court that the defendant committed the offences on October 23, 2024, at about 9:00 a.m. at Agbado, Ota.

Mr Adaraloye alleged that the defendant returned to the workshop at night and stole a compressor, top cylinder, complete shaft, and other spare parts valued at N900,000 belonging to the complainant, Salau Lekan.

The officer added that the defendant also damaged the complainant’s vehicle while trying to break into it.

Mr Adaraloye said the defendant was arrested after a thorough investigation by the police.

The prosecutor said the offences contravened Sections 390 (9) and 451 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun, 2006.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The magistrate, O. O. Fadairo, granted him bail of N150,000 with one surety in like sum.

Mr Fadairo ordered that the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and be gainfully employed with evidence of tax payment to the Ogun government.

The case was adjourned until March 3 for further hearing. 

(NAN)