The police, on Friday, arraigned a 42-year-old commercial motorcyclist, Tachin Agera, before the Makurdi Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing two motorcycles belonging to the Benue Motorcycle Association (BEMOA).
Mr Tachin, who lives at No. 1 Agera St., New GRA, Katsina-Ala of Benue, was charged with criminal conspiracy, criminal trespass, criminal force, intimidation and theft.
The police prosecutor, Isaac Ogwuche, told the court that the case was reported at the police headquarters, Makurdi, following a petition by the chairman of BEMOA, John Adue, on October 3.
Mr Ogwuche said Mr Adue’s petition, dated September 30 and addressed to the commissioner of police, stated that the defendant led more than 100 persons to his office, situated opposite First Bank, Wurukum, and carted away some valuables, including two motorcycles.
“The petitioner also alleged that the gang took away 30 booklets of BEMOA receipts, which cost N12,000 each, amounting to N360,000, and two red motorcycles valued at N608,000,” the prosecutor further said.
He also said that the defendant was arrested for committing the crime during a police investigation, adding that other suspects were still at large.
The prosecutor said the offences contravened sections 97, 349, 266, 398 and 288 of the Penal Code Law of Benue, 2004.
However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The magistrate, J.O. Ayia, granted N200,000 bail to the defendant and a surety in like sum.
Ms Ayia adjourned the matter to November 11 for the hearing.
(NAN)