Six arrested for N71m fraud in Ondo

Ondo State Police in Nigeria have arrested six individuals in connection with a fraud totaling over N71 million, involving the alleged illegal sale and transfer of three heavy-duty vehicles. The arrests followed an intelligence-led investigation initiated after a complaint was filed on May 22, 2026.

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The complainant, however, discovered on 13th May, 2026, that the vehicles had allegedly been sold without his authorisation. Disturbed by the development, he promptly reported the matter to the police.

The complainant, a resident of Ondo, reported that he purchased a low-loader truck, a tipper truck, and a small truck valued at approximately N71 million in May 2025. He entrusted these vehicles to the primary suspect, Adeola Kolawole, 56, under an agreed arrangement. However, on May 13, 2026, the complainant discovered that the vehicles had allegedly been sold without his consent.

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Upon receipt of the complaint, detectives immediately commenced a comprehensive investigation.

Detectives launched a comprehensive investigation, which led to the arrest of Kolawole in Ibadan, Oyo State. During interrogation, Kolawole reportedly confessed to selling the vehicles to another suspect, Alhaji Gani Bello, also in Ibadan. This confession provided crucial leads that allowed investigators to track down and apprehend the other four suspects, who are believed to have played various roles in the alleged criminal conspiracy.

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Acting on credible intelligence, the principal suspect, Adeola Kolawole, was arrested and subsequently made useful statements during interrogation, allegedly admitting to selling the vehicles to one Alhaji Gani Bello in Ibadan.

The arrested suspects include Adeola Kolawole (56), Alhaji Gani Bello (73), Oladoja Akeem (56), Wasiu Adigun (55), Azeez Yusuf (49), and Ojo Mudasiru (40). The Ondo State Police Command stated that efforts are underway to recover the three vehicles and fully understand the extent of the criminal conspiracy. All six suspects have reportedly made confessional statements and are expected to be charged in court once the investigations conclude.

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This confession provided vital leads that enabled investigators to track down and arrest other suspects believed to have played various roles in the unlawful transaction.