The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has arrested suspected members of a phone theft and “one chance” robbery syndicate in Ibadan, Oyo State, following the recovery of a stolen mobile phone during a routine patrol operation.
The arrest was announced in a statement posted on the official Facebook page of the FRSC on Tuesday and signed by the Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri.
According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Monday along the Babalegba-Eleyele-Ojoo corridor when an FRSC patrol team on routine duty noticed unusual activity involving a motorcycle rider chasing a Nissan Micra with registration number AJW 903XE.
The situation escalated when a female passenger in the vehicle raised an alarm, alleging that her mobile phone had been stolen while she was inside the car.
Responding immediately, FRSC operatives intercepted the vehicle and began preliminary questioning of its occupants.
During the interrogation, the driver, identified as Idowu Mukaila, reportedly told officers that he could help recover the missing phone.
The Corps said suspicions deepened when another individual arrived shortly afterward and produced the stolen device.
The development prompted officials to suspect the existence of an organised criminal network operating in the area.
Following the recovery of the phone, the case was reported to the relevant authorities, and the suspects were taken into custody for further investigation.
The FRSC disclosed that officials of the Park Management System and the Oyo State Drivers’ Union later informed the Corps that both the driver and the vehicle had already been under surveillance over alleged involvement in phone theft and “one chance” robbery activities across Ibadan.
According to the statement, the suspects were subsequently interrogated by the Sector Commander and Deputy Corps Commander Operations before the matter was transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, Eleyele Division, for a detailed investigation and possible prosecution.
The Corps said the incident demonstrated the importance of alertness among patrol personnel and the value of inter-agency cooperation in tackling crime.
“The incident underscores the critical role of FRSC patrol operatives in enhancing road safety and supporting security efforts through vigilance, rapid response and collaboration with relevant law enforcement agencies,” the statement noted.
The FRSC also advised members of the public to remain watchful and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.
