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In a swift operation, officers from the Ogun State Community Social Orientation and Safety Corps, known as So-Safe Corps, have detained a 27-year-old man, Emmanuel Awahnse, on charges of goat theft in the Ipokia Local Government Area.
The arrest took place amid the unexpected setting of a church naming ceremony, leaving many attendees in disbelief.
Early morning theft sparks investigation
Dr. Soji Ganzallo, Commander of the So-Safe Corps, reported that Awahnse was initially spotted on February 6, 2026, at approximately 5:00 a.m. His presence was noted by officers on patrol along the Madoga–Ita-Ege road.
Awahnse, accompanied by an accomplice, was observed fleeing on a motorcycle with a suspicious black bag in tow. As the operatives gave chase, the pair abandoned both the motorcycle and the bag, which was found to contain three goats believed to be stolen.
In response to the incident, a dedicated surveillance team was quickly deployed to locate and apprehend the suspects involved in the theft.
Awahnse, also known as Ariwo Oja, a native of Odoforo in Ipokia, was eventually arrested on February 19 at 1:30 p.m.
Preliminary investigations revealed that he and his accomplice, Ketonsu (alias Ijagun), allegedly stole the goats at Ifonyintedo.
Suspect handed over to police
Dr. Ganzallo confirmed that the recovered animals and Awahnse have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Idiroko Division, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The So-Safe Corps emphasized its commitment to community safety and the swift apprehension of offenders to deter criminal activities in Ogun State.
The arrest has sparked discussions about vigilance during local events and the role of community patrols in preventing theft.