12 docked over alleged theft of N6.4m beer

[MrVan]

Lagos – Twelve contract staff of Guinness Nigeria Plc were on Friday docked before an Ebute Meta Magistrates' Court, Lagos, for allegedly stealing cartons of Guinness Stout worth N6.4million.

The accused who were drivers of the company were charged on a 13- count charge ranging from conspiracy, stealing, and felony among others.

They are Friday Odalonu, 52; John Udeh, 46; Bright Ndubisi, 25; Lateef Adebayo, 42; Akeem Asekome, 35; Bamidele Rahimi, 50; and Austin Olorunda, 31.

Others are Amos Michael, 38; Ebenezer Oladosu, 38; Alimi Hammed, 38; Owoduni Sarafa, 44; and Saheed Tiamiyu, 30.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

The Prosecutor, Insp. Samuel Omoyeni, told the court that the accused had between Jan. 20, 2011 and Dec. 20, 2011 diverted Guinness stout cartons meant for the company's customers.

"The Guinness products were entrusted in their care for safety delivery at plot Y, Mobolaji Johnson Ave., Ikeja, and other areas of Lagos state.

"But, they diverted some of the products and pocketed the money for their own use," Omoyeni said.

He said that the offences contravened Sections 285 and 409 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

Magistrate M.O Olubi granted each of the accused N100,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till April 26 for mention. (NAN)

Vanguard Nigeria