Navy Nabs Car Theft Syndicate Member In Abuja

The Nigerian Navy has nabbed a suspected member of a vehicle theft syndicate linked to the theft of more than 50 vehicles across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

A statement by the Naval Spokesman, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the operation was carried out by operatives of Naval Base, Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the security architecture of the FCT through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with sister security agencies.

He said the suspect, Mr Habeeb Ajadi, was intercepted while attempting to leave the FCT.

Preliminary investigation revealed that he allegedly impersonated an Inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to facilitate his criminal activities.

The suspect further confessed to his involvement in a vehicle theft syndicate responsible for stealing vehicles from different parts of the FCT.

“Investigations also revealed that the criminal network operated across state boundaries, with stolen vehicles reportedly disposed of through accomplices outside the FCT,” the  Naval spokesman said.

The statement said efforts were ongoing with other relevant security agencies to apprehend other members of the syndicate.

It added that the suspect together with relevant exhibits and evidence has been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), FCT Command, in accordance with established inter-agency procedures for further investigation and prosecution.