In Lagos, a 36-year-old panel beater, Lukman Alao, was brought before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court on Friday, accused of stealing his customer’s car’s catalytic converter, valued at N400,000.
The defendant, who resides at 17, Emmanuel St., Onigbongbo Maryland, Lagos, is facing trial for the theft of a catalytic converter.
According to Inspector Segun Oke, the prosecutor, the alleged offence took place on October 15, 2022, at Maryland, Lagos.
Mr. Frank Uneke, the complainant, noticed that his Toyota Prius Car was consuming more fuel than usual after he had taken it to the defendant for repairs. Upon inquiry, it was discovered that the car’s catalytic converter, valued at N400,000, had been removed.
It’s worth noting that Vanguard recently published a special report on how mechanics, dealers, and panel beaters are defrauding car owners by stealing catalytic converters.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge of stealing the catalytic converter.
Magistrate Mrs. M. C. Ayinde granted the defendant bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in the same amount.
The case has been adjourned until August 16 for trial.
