A 21-year-old man, Samuel Thomas, who allegedly stole his employer’s goods worth N1.7 million, was on Monday brought before an Ejigbo Magistrates’ Court, Lagos.

The defendant is standing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing, preferred against him by the police.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The police prosecutor, Insp Benedict Aigbokhan, told the court that the defendant and others at large committed the offenses on Jan. 25, at Flow Precious company, 7/9, NNPC Road, Ejigbo, Lagos.

According to him, the defendant stole a three-inch liquid control flow meter worth N600,000, a four-inch valley worth N320,000, and six pieces of flanges worth NN180,000.

Also allegedly stolen was a three-inch diesel water pump worth N600,000.

Aigbokhan said that all items stolen were valued at N1.7 million, belonging to one Mr. Yekini Olutade, the coordinator of the company.

According to him, the offenses contravene Sections 287 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The Magistrate, Mr. E. O. Ogunkanmi, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties in like sum.

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He ordered that the sureties must be gainfully employed and show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

Ogunkanmi adjourned the case until Feb. 28, for mention.