The Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) in Ikoyi, Lagos, has arrested two suspects, Ezekiel Taiwo and Rahman Airat, over the alleged diversion of building materials worth over N250 million.
The materials, which included cement and other construction items, were reportedly stolen from Taiwo’s employer and the proceeds allegedly used for gambling.
The PSFU spokesman, Ovie Ewhubare, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Saturday.
He revealed that the suspects have been charged before the Federal High Court in Lagos on a five-count charge including conspiracy, stealing, fraudulent conversion, embezzlement, and money laundering.
“In a significant development to an ongoing case of conspiracy, stealing, fraudulent conversion of funds, embezzlement, and money laundering to the tune of Two Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N250,000,000), the PSFU has arraigned two suspects; Taiwo ‘M’ and Airat before the Federal High Court, Lagos,” Ewhubare said.
The case originated from a petition by Jimoh Atofolaki, the employer of Taiwo, who accused his apprentice of diverting large quantities of cement and other materials from the company’s Osogbo branch, leading to massive financial losses.
“Investigations revealed that Taiwo conspired with Airat to convert the goods and used the proceeds for gambling,” the PSFU spokesperson added.
The Commissioner of Police in charge of the Special Fraud Unit, Okunade Nurat, issued a cautionary note to business owners on the need for due diligence when employing staff.
“We urge members of the public to be wary and always ensure that they carry out thorough background checks before employing individuals to take charge of their businesses,” she stated.
This case echoes a similar incident from 2019, when a 20-year-old apprentice, Kosi Nnamani, was arrested and charged for allegedly stealing goods valued at N1.94 million from his employer.
