A business owner, Akintayo Omotayo, has expressed regret over losing clothes and power banks valued at around N2m after thieves invaded his shop located opposite the gate of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, impacting between 80 and 100 customers.
Omotayo, the creator of Guccitayo Service Hub on Ijagun Street, stated that the incident happened between Thursday night and Friday morning, prompting him to halt operations.
In an interview, Omotayo stated, “My store was broken into on Thursday night/Friday morning.” On Thursday, I didn’t turn on the generator for my charging business since it was malfunctioning. I solely focused on my laundry business.
“On Friday morning, I arrived at the store to hang out the laundry I had cleaned.” I subsequently intended to attend my monthly clearance since I am an active corps member. I intended to have the clothes packed by the time I got back and swiftly iron them. I had already outlined how my staff would manage the business during my absence for clearance.
“Upon arriving at the store, I noticed that the exterior extension door was damaged.” The primary entrance had likewise been pried open.
“Through the layout of my store, one can conveniently enter via the charging area and exit through the laundry area.”
“I typically secure the laundry section door from the inside while locking the charging section door from the outside.” This provided them with convenient access to the laundry area.
“They seized power banks and clothing items that belonged to my clients, valued at around N2m.”
When questioned if he had any suspects in mind, he replied, “I truly can’t imagine anyone who might have done that to me.”
The business owner reported that the thieves abandoned his generator, two drink-filled refrigerators, and a washing machine, noting that the only items taken from him were chargers.
He stated that the type of items taken, especially the belongings of customers, led him to believe that the burglary was a targeted assault intended to harm his business.
“I have felt heartbroken since the event.” The majority of the stolen goods were owned by my clients, which adds to the pain of the situation.
“Some of my clients have been patient and allowed me time to address the issue, whereas others are seeking quick responses,” he stated.
The business owner also voiced his dissatisfaction with the reply he got after informing the police about the incident.
“After my NYSC monthly clearance, I headed to the Abapawa Police Station.” The officers present told me they couldn’t take any action since I lacked a prime suspect.
“They mentioned they could solely visit the incident site and record observations.” The officers inquired about the amount I was ready to offer them to come to the site and conduct an inventory.
“I let them know that the event had already created a significant setback for me and that I was deeply in debt.” They subsequently informed me that it was late and I should come back the following day.
“I returned the next day, in the afternoon or evening, but was informed that the IPO was not present.” I came back on Sunday, and he was the sole IPO present.
“When I arrived, he told me that my report was already overdue.” I stated that I had been to the station multiple times, but he insisted I was not telling the truth and that the matter would have been reported to him. He ultimately guided me to the Igbeba Police Station, stating it served as their headquarters.”
Attempts by our reporter to get a response from the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command were futile, as he did not reply to calls and messages by the time this report was completed.
