Driver Arrested After Using Stolen Car to Testify in Church

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested Amos Daniel, a 36-year-old driver, who allegedly stole his employer’s car on the same day he was hired. The suspect reportedly took the stolen vehicle to his church, where he gave a testimony claiming it was a miraculous provision from God.

In a statement to journalists, Daniel admitted his actions. He said, “I stole my employer’s Lexus car on June 23, 2024, the very first day I was employed. On June 30, 2024, I took the car to church to testify that God had blessed me. I planned to use the car for Uber to pay off my debts.”

Police Uncover Additional Robbery Gangs

During the same press briefing, the Lagos State Police Command also paraded other suspects involved in various criminal activities. Among them were two dismissed soldiers, Akeem Suleiman and Abdulau Mohammed, who reportedly led a four-man robbery gang. The gang specialized in snatching vehicles at gunpoint, often disguising themselves with military uniforms and headgear.

Police recovered military attire, identity cards, and other items from the suspects. SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Command’s spokesman, revealed that the gang had been active for years. He said, “These dismissed soldiers operated in full military gear, making it difficult for victims to suspect their criminal activities. One was dismissed from the army in 2014 and the other in 2017.”

Akeem Suleiman, one of the dismissed soldiers, confessed to his involvement in the crimes. He said, “I started robbery in April 2024. We targeted cars that were parked with windows down. Once we spotted such cars, we would drag the owners out and drive off. We operated mainly in the Ajah area, using a local gun, but we never killed anyone.”

Mechanic Turned Thief Arrested

Another suspect, 25-year-old Thankgod Kesh-David, was also apprehended. Posing as a roadside mechanic, he would offer to repair broken-down vehicles but would abscond with them instead.

Police Call for Caution

SP Hundeyin urged members of the public to conduct thorough background checks before hiring domestic staff, including drivers. “Employers should ensure due diligence by taking prospective staff to the Central Criminal Registry at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon, for screening. This step can prevent incidents like these,” he advised.

All the suspects, including Daniel and the robbery gang, will face charges in court soon.