By Deborah Nnamdi
The Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) in Ikoyi, Lagos, has arrested an apprentice and his accomplice for allegedly diverting building materials worth over N250 million from a construction supply company to fund gambling activities.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the PSFU spokesperson, Ovie Ewhubare, the suspects—identified as Ezekiel Taiwo and Rahman Airat—have been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Lagos on five counts, including conspiracy, stealing, fraudulent conversion, embezzlement, and money laundering.
The arrest followed a petition filed by businessman Jimoh Atofolaki, who alleged that Taiwo, an apprentice stationed at the Osogbo branch of his company, had systematically diverted company property, including cement and other building materials, over some time.
“Investigations revealed that Taiwo conspired with Airat to convert the goods and used the proceeds for gambling,” Ewhubare said in the statement.
The PSFU’s findings led to the formal arraignment of both suspects, with charges reflecting the serious financial implications of the theft and subsequent laundering of funds.
Commissioner of Police, Special Fraud Unit, CP Okunade Nurat, urged business owners to conduct thorough background checks before employing individuals, especially those in positions of financial trust.
The case remains under judicial consideration, with further developments expected as court proceedings continue.
