● Zone 2 police say suspect fled to Canada in July 2025, intercepted on return with Interpol help
An accountant accused of masterminding a ₦150 million burglary in Maryland, Lagos, has been arrested by Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, 11 months after fleeing to Canada.
AIG Olohundare Jimoh, in charge of Zone 2, told journalists Tuesday that the suspect was picked up Monday while attempting to re-enter Nigeria from Canada. He had been on the run since July 2025.
—“17 years as accountant to late property owner”—
Jimoh said the case began on July 11, 2025, when a burglary was reported at a five-bedroom duplex in Maryland. Property worth about ₦150 million was stolen.
“Those suspects were subsequently charged to court and remanded in prison custody. However, the principal suspect, who served as accountant to the late property owner for 17 years, fled to Canada before he could be arrested,” Jimoh stated.
—Interpol tracking leads to airport arrest–
Police contacted Interpol Nigeria on July 16, 2025, to assist in tracking the fugitive internationally. Months of intelligence gathering and surveillance followed, leading to his interception on arrival.
“The arrest is a testament to the strong synergy between the Nigeria Police Force and Interpol. It demonstrates that no matter where a suspect flees after committing a crime, law enforcement agencies can track and bring such persons to justice,” the AIG said.
—-Investigation widens—
Jimoh disclosed that the suspect has already provided statements on his alleged role and the involvement of others. Police are now working to identify anyone who facilitated the offence, benefited from it, or knowingly received stolen items.
“We are determined to ensure that everyone connected to this criminal act is brought to justice. This includes those who participated directly, benefited from it, or purchased and concealed stolen items,” he said.
Recoveries are ongoing for valuables removed from the duplex.
—Warning to fugitives—
The AIG warned that fleeing abroad does not shield offenders from prosecution: “Anyone who commits a crime in Nigeria and believes travelling abroad will prevent arrest is mistaken. The Nigeria Police Force, working with Interpol and other international security agencies, will continue to pursue offenders wherever they may be.”
He reaffirmed IGP Olatunji Disu’s commitment to strengthening crime prevention, investigation, and prosecution through international partnerships and intelligence sharing.
