FCT police bust notorious car theft ring, recover vehicles

The operatives of the FCT Police Command have arrested a car theft kingpin in Abuja and recovered exotic cars.

A spokesperson for the command, SP Josephine Adeh, who made the disclosure, hinted that on October 10, 2024, Mr Philemon Olaoluwa reported to the Central Police Divisional Headquarters after his vehicle, a Honda Accord 2006 model, ash colour with registration number RBC 40 NW, was stolen.

She said Mr Olaoluwa’s car developed a mechanical fault, and a friend recommended that he engage a mechanic from Apo Mechanic Village, FCT, named Abdulhamid Saidu (currently at large).

“Mr. Olaoluwa, unaware of the mechanic’s motives, released his vehicle with its documents inside the car.

“But instead of repairing it, Saidu disappeared with the car. Thanks to the digital tracking technology installed in the vehicle, FCT Police Command operatives tracked the car to Rayfield, Jos in Plateau State, where it was discovered with Steven Abang, a notorious suspect known for receiving, rebranding, and selling off stolen vehicles.

“Abang confessed that he received the vehicle from his accomplice, Saidu.
At Abang’s workshop, two additional vehicles, a Hyundai Accent and a Peugeot 208, likely stolen as well, were in the process of being rebranded.

“Abang admitted to having ready buyers on standby, to whom he has rebranded and sold over 16 stolen vehicles in the past four years.

“Abang is now in custody and will be charged to court following further investigations.

“Let’s remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help combat car theft and other crimes in FCT to the FCT Police emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, and 07057337653. PCB: 09022222352, CRU: 08107314192. PPRO FCT: 07038979348,” Adeh said.