Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested a man, Joshua Philip, who allegedly specialises in stealing television sets and other equipment from hotels across Nigeria after lodging. Deputy Corps Commandant Richard Balogun disclosed the arrest to newsmen in Benin City on Thursday.
According to Balogun, the suspect, a resident of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, moves around the country committing the crime. He allegedly targeted at least four hotels in Benin City before his arrest at a hotel in the Aduwawa area.
The suspect's modus operandi involved checking into hotels using fake names, addresses, and phone numbers. After lodging, he would steal items like TV sets and check out without informing hotel staff. His arrest came when the manager of the Aduwawa hotel spotted him in the city and recognized him as the guest who had stolen from their property.
The manager immediately contacted ESSC operatives on routine patrol, who effected the arrest. Balogun stated that the suspect would be handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and prosecution.
This arrest highlights a unique form of property crime targeting the hospitality industry and underscores the importance of collaboration between private security and state security agencies in combating such offenses.
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