The Oyo State Police Command has successfully thwarted an attempted diesel theft worth about ₦12 million in Ibadan, arresting two suspects and recovering roughly 10,000 litres of diesel. The operation was carried out after credible intelligence from members of the public alerted police to suspicious activities at the Kopek Construction Company site.
The suspects, Yusuf Mutiyat (43) and Ogunniyan Rasheed (64), were found siphoning diesel from a mixer truck into 24 barrels, each holding about 240 litres, ready for illicit sale. The recovered diesel, valued at approximately ₦12 million, was immediately seized by the police to prevent further economic loss.
According to DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the Police Public Relations Officer, the Command Monitoring Unit coordinated the raid, ensuring the suspects were apprehended without incident. The police confirmed that further investigations are underway to determine if the duo is linked to a larger diesel theft syndicate operating in Ibadan and neighbouring states.
Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, praised the operatives for their vigilance, swift response, and professionalism. He highlighted the importance of community cooperation in combating crime, urging residents to continue providing timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies.
The police also warned that all individuals involved in the illegal diversion and resale of petroleum products would face strict prosecution under Nigerian law, emphasizing that such crimes not only disrupt economic activities but also contribute to fuel scarcity and inflated prices.
Residents and business operators in Ibadan welcomed the police action, noting that thefts of diesel and other petroleum products have adversely affected local industries, transport operators, and household fuel supply. Authorities have reiterated plans to intensify surveillance at fuel depots, construction sites, and transit points to curb petroleum theft in Oyo State and beyond.
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