The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested a suspected serial car thief, Alhassan Isa, also known as Tata, and recovered a stolen vehicle.

The suspect, a resident of Shuwarin town in Kiyawa Local Government Area, was apprehended with a Mazda 323 Model F, bearing registration number MNA 139HK, Niger State.

In a statement on Sunday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Lawan Adam, said the car’s owner, Abdurrahman Sadiq, a staff member of the Nigerian Institute of Oil Palm Research, reported the theft at the Dutse Division on February 21, 2025.

“Sadiq had parked his vehicle at Aujara village in Jahun Local Government Area and forgot the key inside. When he woke up the next morning, he discovered that the vehicle was missing,” the statement read.

Following the report, detectives from the Dutse Division and the State Criminal Investigation Department launched an investigation, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

According to the PPRO, Isa confessed to the crime during interrogation. Further investigations revealed that he is an ex-convict with multiple charges related to motorcycle and tricycle theft.

SP Adam assured that the suspect would face legal proceedings. “We will ensure that justice is served in this case,” he said.

The Jigawa State Police Command urged vehicle owners to remain vigilant, lock their vehicles, and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities. The police reaffirmed their commitment to reducing crime and ensuring public safety.