Imoto, whose residential is not known, however, pleaded not guilty to a count charge of stealing brought before him.

Earlier, the Prosecutor, Insp. Victor Eruada, told court that the accused committed the offence on March 30 at Osanyintola Street in Ijaye, Ojokoro, near Lagos.

Eruada said that the accused entered the shop of one Mrs Olufemi Nifemi and stole the phone.

The prosecutor said during police investigation, it was discovered that only the accused entered the complainant’s shop at the time the phone was stolen.

He said the offence contravened Sections 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Section 285 stipulates a three-year jail term on conviction.

The Magistrate, Mr G.O. Anifowoshe, granted Imoto bail in the sum of N10, 000 with one surety in like sum.

He said that the surety must be gainfully employed and should show evidence of two-year tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

The case was adjourned till April 19 for mention.