By Emmanuel Daniji

What appeared to be an ordinary trip to a vulcaniser to fix a tyre ended with a newly employed driver allegedly disappearing with his employer’s car.

The driver, identified by the Ogun State Police Command as Waidi Olaide Kolawale, had reportedly been employed just two days before he allegedly took the 2016 Toyota Camry belonging to an Indian national based at the Ilupeju Industrial Estate in Lagos.

The incident happened on September 9, 2026, according to the police. Kolawale reportedly told his employer that he was taking the vehicle to a nearby vulcaniser for a tyre repair but allegedly failed to return with it.

The missing vehicle, however, did not remain missing for long.

After the owner reported the incident, the Camry was electronically tracked to the Ifo area of Ogun State. The information was passed to the Divisional Police Officer of Ifo Division, CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi, who deployed surveillance and anti-robbery operatives.

The officers tracked the vehicle through several locations before locating it at a hotel in Ifo at about 8:30pm.

According to the police, Kolawale fled when he saw the operatives, taking the vehicle’s ignition key with him. His alleged accomplice, identified as Monday Adetunji, was arrested at the scene.

Preliminary police investigation also indicated that the suspects had allegedly approached a mechanic with a request to remove the vehicle’s catalyst. The mechanic reportedly refused.

The Camry has since been recovered and handed back to its owner, while police are continuing efforts to arrest Kolawale and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

The case has also raised another issue for vehicle owners who employ drivers and other workers with access to valuable property: trust may be necessary, but the police say it should be backed by proper checks.

Ogun State Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi advised vehicle owners to use reliable tracking devices and additional anti-theft measures such as steering and tyre locks.

He also urged people to exercise greater care when handing over vehicles, property or access to their homes and businesses to newly employed workers.

Hoteliers were similarly advised to strengthen guest and vehicle verification, keep accurate records and promptly report suspicious people, vehicles or activities.

The police said members of the public can report suspicious activities through the Gateway Shield toll-free line, 0800 000 9111, or 09164859299 and 09154293464.