Three arraigned over alleged maize theft

Three men were arraigned before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates' Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday, for allegedly stealing 1,050 bags of maize.

The defendants are Muhammed Umaru, 75; Hammed Soladoye, 35; and Mukaila Adigun, 30.

The trio whose addresses were not provided, are standing trial on charges bordering on conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen property.

They each, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, Inspector Samuel Owolabi, told the court that the defendants committed the offences on March 26, at about 6. 20 p.m. at Iwo road in Ibadan.

He alleged that Umaru stole the bags of maize which value had yet to be ascertained, belonging to a complainant, Musa Muhammed.

Mr Owolabi alleged that Soladoye and Adigun received the bags of maize from Umaru, knowing that were stolen goods.

The offences contravene the provisions of Sections 390(9), 427 and 516 of the Criminal Law of Oyo State, 2000.

The Magistrate, Gladys Olanrewaju, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N500,000 each, with two sureties each in like sum.

She adjourned the case until June 3, for hearing.