Two farmers, Seyi Williams and Oto James, both aged 42, have been arraigned before the Ore Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing cocoa beans valued at N250,000.
The prosecution, led by Inspector A. Odejide, informed the court that the defendants conspired to unlawfully enter a cocoa farm at Onipako Camp, near Ofosu, Ondo State, on January 8, 2025, at around 10:00 a.m. They were accused of harvesting and stealing fresh cocoa beans belonging to one Richard Adebusuyi.
The charges brought against them include conspiracy and stealing, offenses said to contravene Sections 516 and 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Volume 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. While the prosecutor requested an adjournment to review the case and prepare witnesses, defense counsel Mr. G. Ibe and Mr. Taiwo Arowosegbe urged the court to grant the defendants bail on lenient terms.
Magistrate A. A. Fasanu granted bail to the defendants in the sum of N300,000 each, with two sureties in like sum. The case has been adjourned to February 19, 2025, for further hearing.
The incident underscores growing concerns over theft in agricultural communities, particularly during harvest seasons.
