Lagos State Police Arrest Man for Stealing Uber Car Using Plate of Pepper Soup

Lagos – The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended a man accused of stealing an Uber vehicle after deceiving the driver with a plate of pepper soup. 

The incident, confirmed by the police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin, took place on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

According to SP Hundeyin, the Akinpelu Police Division received a report on July 5 at approximately 8:00 p.m. from an Uber driver whose identity has not been disclosed. The driver reported that he had picked up a passenger, identified only as Isaiah, from the NNPC Filling Station in Maryland. The journey was intended to conclude at a hotel in the Oshodi area.

Upon arrival at the hotel, the suspect allegedly offered the driver food, including a plate of pepper soup and an energy drink. During the meal, Isaiah requested a cotton bud to clean his ear. In a moment of misplaced trust, the driver handed over his car key to the suspect to aid in his search for the cotton bud.

Seizing the opportunity, Isaiah went downstairs and drove off with the Toyota Corolla from its parking spot. However, his escape was short-lived. A team of police officers conducting a stop-and-search operation on Boladale Street intercepted the suspect. Unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for his possession of the vehicle, he was promptly arrested.

In a twist of fate, while the officers were preparing to transport the suspect to the police station, the Uber driver arrived at the scene and identified his car. 

The suspect has been detained for further investigation, SP Hundeyin confirmed. The Lagos State Police Command continues to urge the public to exercise caution and remain vigilant to prevent such incidents.