Fake Navy Commander arrested over theft of cars worth N13.9m

A 39-year-old self-professed Navy Commander, Adekanla Ayodele, has been accused of stealing five vehicles worth N13.9 million.

The accused who duped his victims, Mr. Iredodia Obazee and Mr. Usman Muda under the guise of been a Navy Commander, was said to have worn the naval uniform with the badge of a Commander and in the company of some accomplices. They reportedly obtained the five Toyota Sport Utility Vehicles, SUVs from the owners sometime in December, 2012.

The victims reported to the police and Ayodele was later arrested.

Following his arraignment on Thursday before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos, the prosecuting officer, Inspector Stephen Molo, told the court that the defendant, who resides in the Ajah area of Lagos, and others who are still at large unlawfully obtained the vehicles.

The self-acclaimed Commander was arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining by false pretence, stealing and impersonation.

The prosecutor listed the vehicles to include: One unregistered Toyota Highlander Jeep (2004 model), one unregistered Toyota RAV4 Jeep (2008 model), two unregistered Nissan Pathfinder Jeeps (2005 model); and one unregistered Toyota Tundra Jeep (2002 model) all valued at N13.9 million.

Ayodele, however, denied the charges, saying that he was just a businessman.

In her ruling, the Magistrate A. O. Sholadoye granted the accused N500, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum, one of whom must be a senior military officer.

Sholadoye adjourned the case to March 22 for further hearing.