The Lagos state police command has arrested Jude Onouha, a 46-year-old suspected leader of a gang notorious for vandalising luxury vehicles across the city.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to the police, the syndicate disguised themselves as security officers to infiltrate residential estates and steal car components.
The group reportedly wore fake uniforms and used a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack designed to resemble a firearm to deceive estate guards.
In a statement, Babaseyi Oluseyi, deputy police public relations officer, said the suspects gained access to gated communities under the pretext of conducting security investigations.
The statement reads, “The suspect and his gang specialised in posing as security operatives, wearing fake uniforms, and using a Mercedes-Benz car jack crafted to look like a firearm to deceive unsuspecting estate security personnel.”
“Once inside, they targeted high-end SUVs such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650, and Mercedes-Benz models, systematically removing valuable parts including brainboxes, wiring systems, side mirrors, and control devices.”
The police said Onouha is cooperating with investigators and has confessed to his involvement. Items recovered include the fake firearm and a cap marked “Special Force.” Efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the gang.
The command urged estate managers and security personnel to thoroughly verify the identities of individuals claiming to be security operatives before allowing them entry.
It also advised residents to contact their divisional police officers or call the command’s emergency lines for quick verification and response.
