Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have uncovered a car theft syndicate operating in Abuja, following a swift response to a distress call over a stolen vehicle.
In a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the police revealed that the operation began on April 11, after the Durumi Division received a report of a stolen Toyota Corolla (2005 model, gold colour) with registration number KUJ 208 DA.
The vehicle had been taken from the owner’s residence.
According to Adeh, acting swiftly, officers tracked the car to a workshop in Durumi, where it was discovered being illegally repainted in a bid to evade detection and facilitate a quick resale.
The police said that further investigation at the scene led to the recovery of another vehicle, a red Toyota Corolla with registration number GWA 844 CK — which had previously been reported stolen from Jikwoyi.
Three suspects including Steven Musa, David Dalyol (a painter), and Ibrahim Mohammed (a mechanic) were apprehended at the workshop.
“During interrogation, they confessed to being part of a car theft syndicate operating across the Wuse, Central Area, Jikwoyi, and Bwari districts of the FCT. According to police, the group specialized in stealing vehicles, refurbishing them to appear newer, and selling them off,” Adeh said.
The officer added that the suspects remain in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Ajao Adewale, Commissioner of Police (CP), has urged car owners to install tracking devices and other anti-theft systems to aid in timely recovery in the event of theft.
He also reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08033111911, or 07057321547.
