Teenage bus conductor faces N1.3m bus theft charge

A 19-year-old bus conductor, Kopia Yeovia, was on Monday
brought before an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing a Volkswagen T4 bus valued at N1.3 million.

The accused, who lives at No. 18, Nape Road, Alaba, off Lagos-Badagry Expressway, is standing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.

He, however, pleaded not guilty.

Police Prosecutor Peter Nwangwu alleged that the accused committed the offences with others now at large on Dec. 22, 2017 at Egbeda Bus Stop in Alimosho area of Lagos at 3.00 p.m.

He said the accused stole Volkswagen T4 bus valued at N1.3 million, property of the complainant, Mr Christopher Maduagana.

“The complainant said he gave the commercial bus to Matthew Asuquo, the driver, on hire purchase.

“While Asuquo was at the motor park bus stop sorting out union dues, the accused came into the bus and drove it off to an unknown destination,” Nwangwu told the court.

The offences contravened Sections 287 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015 (Revised).

Our correspondent reports that Section 287 stipulates a three-year jail term for stealing, while Section 411 prescribes two years for conspiracy.

The Magistrate, Mrs Y.O. Aje-Afunwa, granted the accused bail in the sum of N400,000 with two sureties in like sum.

The case was adjourned until July 27.