The Ondo State Police Command has arrested seven suspects in connection with an alleged conspiracy and large-scale theft of beverages valued at ₦20.45 million from a commercial store in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh.

According to the statement, the case was reported by the complainant, Mr Ogunyomi Segun, who informed the police at the Ore Divisional Police Headquarters that some of his trusted employees had allegedly been stealing goods from his store over an extended period.

DSP Jimoh said the theft occurred between 2024 and January 3, 2026, during which large quantities of soft drinks, Trophy cans, and other assorted canned beverages were unlawfully removed from the store.

“The total estimated value of the stolen items is ₦20,450,000,” the statement said.

Following a detailed investigation, police detectives uncovered an internal conspiracy involving staff of the business and external collaborators. Those arrested include the storekeeper, Oyineke Joseph; the computer operator, Abioye Yusuf; and another staff member, Abdullahi Quadir.

Also arrested were three alleged receivers of the stolen goods, Michael Njoku, Agu Monday, and Ikuemehin Oloruntimilehin, who were reportedly linked to the operation through a driver identified as Ojewuyi.

“The suspects were identified as the complainant’s storekeeper, his computer operator, another staff member, as well as three receivers who allegedly helped dispose of the stolen goods,” DSP Jimoh said.

He added that during interrogation, the suspects confessed to their involvement in the crime and provided details of the specific roles played by each individual in the theft and distribution of the beverages.

“The suspects confessed to the crime and clearly stated the roles each of them played in the unlawful act. They will be charged in court upon the conclusion of the investigation,” the police spokesperson stated.

Reacting to the arrest, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the officers and detectives involved for their professionalism and diligence, noting that the successful operation reflected the command’s growing capacity to tackle economic crimes and organised theft.

He also acknowledged the support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, whose ongoing reforms and technological initiatives, he said, have strengthened policing effectiveness and crime detection across the state.

The command further urged residents, business owners, and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the police.

“Collective effort remains vital to the attainment of a safer society,” DSP Jimoh said.