A Chief Magistrates’ Court in Amawbia, Awka, Anambra State, has arraigned four individuals over their alleged involvement in the theft of diesel worth N6 million. The accused, identified as Adewale Ajogun, Solomon Godwin, Samson Anasike, and Agnes Ezechukwu, were docked on Monday, February 4, 2025, facing three counts of conspiracy, stealing, and receiving stolen property.
According to Police Prosecutor, Inspector Innocent Agu, the crime occurred on January 15, 2025, at Hilton Leisure Hotel, Regina Junction, Awka, where three of the defendants allegedly stole diesel belonging to the hotel, while Ezechukwu was accused of receiving the stolen fuel.
The prosecution stated that the charges violated Sections 495(a), 353(12), and 393 of the Criminal Code Cap 36 Vol. II, Revised Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria, 1991 (as amended).
All four defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them.
Presiding Chief Magistrate Nonyelum Anyaegbunam granted them bail set at N1.5 million each, with one surety per defendant, before adjourning the case to May 21, 2025, for hearing or possible settlement.
The case has sparked discussions about the rising incidence of fuel theft in Anambra State, particularly as businesses struggle with high energy costs and diesel scarcity.
