By Bartholomew Madukwe & Michael Nwopoke

A 31-year-old cook, Amoussou Eusebe, was Tuesday arraigned before an Ebute-Meta Magistrate’s Court in Lagos, for allegedly stealing jewelry valued at N14.5million, property of his employer.

The accused, who was said to be from Republic of Benin, working as a cook to the employer, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing. Employer of the accused, Mr Babajide Ayoade, of No. C32,Grace Court Estate,Makoko Area of Yaba, Lagos, had complained to the police that Eusebe entered his house and stole assorted types of jewellery.

According to the prosecutor, Cpl.Cyriacus Osuji, the complainant and his family went to church on March 31, 2003, and the accused was the only one in the house.  Osuji said the accused entered the complainant’s room and stole assorted types of jewellery.

He noted that the crime was committed at the complainant’s house, adding that the accused resides in the employer’s house.  Osuji also told the court that the accused allegedly stole the jewellery because he wanted to send money to his wife and child,who reside at Republic of Benin.

The prosecutor said that the accused sold the jewellery to a man who is still at large, saying “the alleged offenses contravened Sections 409 and 285 of the Criminal,Laws of Lagos State,2011.  “If found guilty, the accused may be jailed for three years in accordance with Section 285 of the Criminal Code. However, Magistrate, Y.O Okunsanya-Badejo granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties and adjourned the case to May 27 for mention.