Members of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, frequently referred to as the Lagos State Taskforce, apprehended three men suspected of trying to steal the engine control unit, commonly known as a brain-box, from a Vehicle Inspection Service operational van. The incident took place this past Sunday at the Safety Arena in Oshodi, the headquarters of the Lagos Taskforce.
The individuals taken into custody are Kazim Iyiola, also known as Sabela, aged 46; Mohammed Rabiu; and 56-year-old Alhaji Musa Saleh. Authorities are currently searching for a fourth suspect, named Tony, who is accused of acting as a fence for stolen automotive components.
CSP Adetayo Akerele, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, noted that the arrests followed numerous reports regarding missing batteries, spare tires, and other equipment from vehicles parked at the facility. Akerele indicated that these individuals often disguised themselves as mechanics to facilitate the thefts.
During questioning, Iyiola admitted that the group focused on vehicles that remained idle for long durations, noting they could sometimes strip two or three brain-boxes in a single day. These stolen items were reportedly sold to the individual named Tony. The suspects remain in custody while the investigation continues, and authorities have emphasized that they will be prosecuted once the inquiry is complete.
