Lagos UNICEF Office Burgled

Policemen attached to Ikoyi Police Division, Ikoyi, Eti-Osa, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria, have arraigned two security guards before Igbosere Magistrate’s Court for allegedly breaking into the office of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, UNICEF, stealing items worth thousands of naira.

The police alleged that the accused, Ayibatari Oruassah, 48 and Silas Onuoha, 55, recruited by a private firm to guard the UNICEF office, allegedly conspired to break into the office through the window to steal two HP monitors valued at USD700, two infocus projectors valued at USD3,600, one DVD player valued at USD250, Glo sales item valued at USD3,000 with total value of USD7,500, (equivalent to N1,200,450.)

The theft occurred on 20 September, 2011 at 18 Lugard Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The police further alleged that the officials at the UNICEF office on discovering the theft reported the matter to the police and the accused were arrested while some of the stolen items were allegedly recovered from the home of one of the suspects.

During interrogation, they denied knowing anything about the theft.

They were thereafter arraigned on a three-count charge of burglary and stealing before the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court.

According to the prosecutor, Inspector Peter Nwangwu, their offences are punishable under Section 516, 411 and 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap. 32, vol. ii, laws of Lagos State of Nigeria.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge and the presiding magistrate, Mrs. A. F. O. Abegunde Davies, admitted them to bail in the sum of N500,000 with two responsible sureties in like sum.

The magistrate also directed that the sureties must be gainfully employed with sworn affidavit of means of livelihood.

She adjourned the matter till 21 October, 2011 for mention.

—Paul Iyoghojie