Businessman faces break-in, N475, 000 property theft charges

A 38-year-old businessman, Tumise Omobolanle, who allegedly broke into an apartment and stole property valued at N475,000, on Tuesday appeared before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court.

Omobolanle, a resident of No. 19/21, Charles Ave., Ajegunle, Lagos, is facing a charge of stealing.

The accused committed the offence on Dec. 10, 2015 at No. 10, Eleruwa St., Wemabod Estate, Ikeja, said Prosecutor Uche Simon.

Insp. Simon told the court that the accused with two others still at large broke into Janet Matthew’s apartment and stole items such as mobile phones, a laptop and cash all valued at N475,000.

“The complainant (Matthew) shouted for help and Omobolanle was apprehended by security guards while two others escaped with the items.”

The offence contravened the provisions of Section 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Section 285 provides a three-year jail term for stealing.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

The Senior Magistrate, Mr Y.R. Phinero, granted the accused bail in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

Further hearing in the case has been fixed for Jan. 25. (NAN)