Two truck drivers and a security officer were on Thursday arraigned before an Apapa Magistrate’s Court for allegedly stealing N2.34 million worth of submersible water pumping machine at Amuwo-Odofin area of Lagos State.
The trio, Ibrahim Ismaila (31), Aliyu Sawusi (28) and John Atawodi (43), is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing negligence of duty. They pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor, Sergeant Kolade Tedunjaye, told the court that the defendants committed the offences on February 17, 2020 at about 3:30am at No 6, Alakoso Avenue, Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos.
“The defendants conspired together with others at large to steal 156 pieces of submersible water pumping machine valued at N2,340,000 property of Best Price Aluminium Industries Nigeria Limited.
“The third defendant, John Atawodi, being a public officer by nature of his employment refuse/omit to look after his company’s goods kept under his supervision,” Tedunjaye said.
According to her, the offences are punishable under sections 411, 287(7)(b)(c) and 118 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria 2015.
Magistrate F.J Adefioye granted the defendants bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties in like sum. The sureties are required to be gainfully employed and furnish the court with proof of tax payment to Lagos State Government.
He adjourned the case till March 30, 2020 for mention