Police Dismantle Car Theft Syndicate, Recover Stolen Vehicles in Abuja

THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully uncovered a car theft syndicate, recovering two stolen vehicles and arresting three suspects linked to a criminal operation spanning several areas within the territory.

The breakthrough came on 11 April 2025, after the Durumi Division received a distress call reporting the theft of a gold Toyota Corolla (2005 model) with registration number KUJ 208 DA. The vehicle had been stolen from the owner’s residence.

Acting swiftly, officers tracked the car to a workshop in Durumi where it was found undergoing illegal refurbishment.

 According to police sources, the syndicate was attempting to change the colour of the vehicle in a bid to evade detection and facilitate a quick resale.

Further search of the premises led to the recovery of another vehicle—a red Toyota Corolla with registration number GWA 844 CK—which had earlier been reported stolen from a residence in Jikwoyi.

Three suspects—Steven Musa, David Dalyol, identified as a painter, and Ibrahim Mohammed, a mechanic—were arrested at the scene. Upon interrogation, they confessed to being part of a syndicate responsible for stealing vehicles from locations including Wuse, Central Area, Jikwoyi, and Bwari.

“They admitted to refurbishing the stolen cars and disguising them as newer models before selling them off,” said SP Josephine Adeh, the Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Command.

The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao S. Adewale, psc, mnips, urged residents to take precautionary measures. “We advise vehicle owners to install tracking devices and other anti-theft systems to ensure prompt recovery in the event of theft,” he said.

Reiterating the commitment of the police to the safety and security of residents, the Command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities. Emergency lines remain open for swift response: 08032003913, 08033111911, and 07057321547.

“The FCT Police Command remains steadfast in its duty to protect lives and property,” SP Adeh affirmed.