The tragedy of house break-ins continues to haunt our society, testifying to the need for enhanced security and more effective deterrent measures. Recently, the case of defendants Lawal, 18, Usman, 25, Senkikami, 25 and Useni, 25, echoes this disturbing reality.
The accused are facing four counts of house break-ins and theft before a Chief Magistrates Court in Ado-Ekiti. According to the prosecutor, Insp Akinwale Oriyomi, the defendants allegedly committed the offences on September 5 and 7, at 2:30 a.m., at the residence of the victim, Obebe Michael, located at 3, Irona St., Ado-Ekiti. The stolen goods are estimated at N2.6 million, including electrical cables, a distribution board, a mattress, a gas cooker with cylinder, a Hiace refrigerator and an iron rod.
Not only were the goods stolen, the accused also damaged the ceiling, glass door, net and distribution box, causing damages estimated at N1.5 million. In addition, one of the accused, Useni, was found in possession of a 6kg gas cylinder suspected to have been stolen.
These criminal acts contravene Sections 322, 302, 354 and 345 of the Ekiti State Penal Code, 2021. While the accused pleaded not guilty, their lawyer, Opeyemi Esan, pleaded for bail, promising that they would not flee.
This case exposes the flaws in our security system and highlights the importance of taking steps to protect our homes from such criminal acts. It is imperative that stronger preventative measures are put in place to deter thieves and ensure the safety of our property and loved ones.
Ultimately, it is crucial that justice is served fairly and that those responsible for these illicit acts are held accountable for their actions. Society as a whole must work together to combat the scourge of theft and promote a safe environment for all.