The Niger State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old salesgirl, Sarah Ogbonna, for allegedly stealing mobile phones and other items valued at more than N29 million from her employer’s shop in Minna.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday. He said the case was reported on August 8 at “A” Division by the shop owner, whose business is located at the Obasanjo Complex in Minna.
According to the report, the salesgirl had been diverting phones and cash from the shop for months.
She was subsequently arrested, and during interrogation admitted to taking items but claimed she was unsure if the total value amounted to N29 million.
Her confession, police said, led to the arrest of three accomplices on August 9.
They were identified as Ruth Omor Emmanuel, 23; Mercy Ogbonna, 30, Sarah’s elder sister; and Nurudeen Musa, 32, all of Minna.
“Further investigation revealed that Sarah made several transfers of money to her sister, Mercy, who used the funds to settle family expenses, including house rent and food supplies. Ruth, another salesgirl, also participated in some of the thefts before leaving the shop, while Nurudeen regularly collected expensive phones from Sarah and sold them at giveaway prices,” Abiodun stated.
Police investigations further showed that Sarah rented and furnished an apartment in the Sauka-Kauta area of Minna for her boyfriend, identified as Samuel Abiodun Bello, who is currently on the run.
She also allegedly joined an online contribution group, paying N150,000 weekly.
Recovered items from the suspect included two power generators, a smart television, a freezer, wigs valued at N500,000 each, a gas cylinder, shoes, bags, clothing, furniture, and other household items.
The police said all suspects are in custody while efforts are ongoing to apprehend Bello.