I stole policeman’s phone who arrested me to call my family–23 year-old armed robbery suspect, Godwin Emmanuel

A 23-year-old armed robbery suspect, Godwin Emmanuel, has confessed to stealing a policeman’s mobile phone while being transported to a police station in Osogbo.

Emmanuel, who was arrested alongside two others by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Osun State Police Command, admitted to taking the phone from inside the police van. He claimed his intention was to use it to contact his family after being detained.

Suspect’s Account

“I was arrested for armed robbery in Ile-Ife. While being transported to the Osun State Police Command in Osogbo, I stole a phone from the police patrol van. I didn’t realize it was a policeman’s phone,” Emmanuel said.

He explained that he removed the SIM card and smuggled the phone into his cell to call his family, who were unaware of his arrest.

“I didn’t know what I was doing at the time. They later searched me in the cell and found the phone. Please tell them to forgive me. I won’t do it again,” he pleaded.

Emmanuel, originally from Ikorodu, Lagos State, expressed remorse, asking for leniency.

Police Statement

During a press briefing in Osogbo, the Police Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, revealed that Emmanuel and his accomplices, Olajide Kareem (28) and Mike Emmanuel (33), were involved in an armed robbery and rape incident along the Ilesa-Osu Express Road.

Opalola disclosed that one of the victims of the robbery was raped during the incident. The suspects were tracked and arrested in Ikorodu, Lagos State, where they had fled after committing the crimes in Osun State.

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“The suspects have confessed to being members of the armed robbery gang. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members who are still at large. After a thorough investigation, the suspects will be prosecuted,” Opalola stated.

The case highlights the vigilance of the police in combating crime, even as investigations continue to ensure justice for the victims.