A 45-year-old labourer, Gabriel Adebayo on Friday appeared before an Okitipupa Chief Magistrates’ Court, in Ondo, over an alleged stealing of palm fruits worth N500, 000.
The defendant whose address was not given, is facing a two-count charge bordering on felony and stealing.
The Police Prosecutor, Insp. Ayodeji Omoyeigha told the court that the defendant and two others now at large, had on May 25, at about 5.30 a.m. at a palm fruits plantation along Okitipupa-Aye road in Okitipupa magisterial district, committed felony.
Omoyeigha, said that the defendant and two others at large, stole palm fruits worth N500,000, belonging to one Modesola Ikumawoyi.
The prosecutor, said the defendant committed offences that contravened and punishable under Sections 516 and 390 (9), Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Chief Magistrate, Mr Mayowa Olanipekun granted the defendant bail in the sum of N200,000 and a surety in like sum.
He added that the surety who must be resident within the court jurisdiction, must also present evidence of two years tax payment, made to the state government.
He then adjourned the case until July 22 for further hearing.
