Ola Akinwunmi
The Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) in Ikoyi, Lagos, has arrested an apprentice, Ezekiel Taiwo, and his accomplice, Rahman Airat, for allegedly stealing cement and other building materials worth over N250m from Taiwo’s employer.
The suspects have been arraigned before the Federal High Court, Lagos, on a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing, and money laundering.
According to the PSFU, Taiwo, who worked at his employer’s Osogbo branch, diverted company property, including bags of cement and other building materials, amounting to N250m. Investigations revealed that Taiwo conspired with Airat to convert the goods and used the proceeds for gambling.
The Commissioner of Police, Special Fraud Unit, Okunade Nurat, has advised business owners to be vigilant when hiring staff, emphasizing the need for thorough background checks.
The suspects are expected to face trial, and the court will determine their guilt or innocence. The case highlights the importance of trust and accountability in employer-employee relationships.
This incident brings to mind a similar case in 2019, where a 20-year-old apprentice was arrested for stealing goods valued at N1.94m from his master.
