A 29-year-old man, Olaniyan Taofik, has been sentenced to two years in prison by a Magistrate’s Court in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, for unlawfully entering a private farm, stealing property, and causing significant damage.
The conviction followed his arrest by the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Operation Amoteku, Osun State Command, Osun Amotekun Corps, after authorities received a report that Taofik had stolen farm produce and equipment from the farmland of Mr. Omidoyin Clement in Isale-Osun.
According to the Corps, Taofik was apprehended while trying to sell the stolen items, confirming suspicions of premeditated theft.
During questioning, Taofik reportedly admitted not only to the recent theft but also to having committed similar crimes previously, highlighting a pattern of unlawful behaviour.
The stolen items included farm tools, cocoa, bananas, walnuts, and live catfish, valued at approximately N400,000. Additionally, he destroyed a CCTV camera on the property, causing further damage estimated at N300,000.
The case was prosecuted by Mr. Oyedele Akintayo (Esq.), Director of Legal Services for the Osun Amotekun Corps, acting on behalf of the Attorney General.
Magistrate A.A. Ayeni, who delivered the judgment, ruled that the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The defendant was found guilty under Sections 81, 390(9), and 451 of the Criminal Code of Osun State.
Magistrate Ayeni emphasised that the prison term was intended to deter repeat offenders and protect farmers’ livelihoods, particularly in rural areas where agriculture is the primary source of income.
Following the ruling, the Osun Amotekun Corps reiterated its commitment to safeguarding communities and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to prevent crime and protect local property.
The Corps highlighted that active community cooperation is essential for maintaining security, particularly in vulnerable agricultural regions.
The case clearly signals that strict law enforcement will address theft, property damage, and unlawful entry, reinforcing the state’s resolve to protect citizens’ assets.