By The Nation,Tosin Tope

Copyright thenationonlineng

The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended a fleeing member of a notorious armed robbery syndicate known for stealing and reselling Toyota vehicles.

The suspect, Silas Oteku, was arrested by operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit on the Ajibamidele, Ore-Lagos Road, following intelligence reports.

A grey Toyota Sienna, earlier reported stolen in Akure, was recovered from him.

According to police spokesman Deputy Superintendent of Police Olayinka Ayanlade, in a statement, Oteku allegedly confessed to being part of the criminal network that specialises in snatching and fraudulently selling Toyota brand vehicles.

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“investigations also linked him (Oteku) to the fraudulent sale of another stolen Toyota vehicle earlier recovered in Akure, which had already been tampered with and prepared for sale to unsuspecting members of the public,” Ayanlade said.

He said the suspect admitted belonging to the same gang whose five members had earlier been arrested, arraigned before the Akure Magistrates’ Court, and linked to the recovery of four stolen vehicles.

Police confirmed that Oteku is in custody, but that the alleged mastermind behind the operation, along with other fleeing members, remains at large.

The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the SWAT operatives for their success, urging them to pursue the case until the syndicate is dismantled.

Lawal further reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

He said Oteku would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.