Suspected Female Burglar Remanded

The Police at Dolphin Division, Ikoyi, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria, have arrested a pregnant woman, Patricia Chioma Andrew, 23, and arraigned her before the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court on a four-count charge to commit felony to wit breaking and stealing.

The Police alleged that the accused was arrested following a distress call from three residents of Dolphin Estate, that the suspect allegedly broke into their house at 17, Block 35, Flat 3, to steal a Samsung laptop valued at N50,000, a gold set jewellery valued at N52,000, perfumes and some clothes with a total value at N450,000, property of Adesua Imolaore and Nekpen Enokpae.

She was caught when she allegedly attempted to break into the apartment of Mrs. Olukemi Ilori on 19 January, 2012 on the same street.

The victim was said to have raised an alarm which attracted some residents and the accused was apprehended and handed over to the police.

Items recovered from her, according to the police include a saw blade and a chisel.

When asked what a woman was doing with the tools and how she gained entrance into the building, she could not a give satisfactory answer.

She was charged for breaking, entry and stealing. The offences, according to the prosecutor, ASP Augustine Onwemena, are punishable under Sections 409, 304, 305, 285 and are contrary to Section 21 of the Criminal Laws No. 34, Vol. 44, Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and the presiding Chief Magistrate, Mrs. O. J. Awope granted her bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties who must produce evidence of six months bank statement. She adjourned the matter till 15 January 2012 for mention.

When the accused could not perfect the bail conditions in good time, she was moved to Kirikiri Prison.

—Paul Iyoghojie