The Rivers State Police Command has dismantled a suspected car theft syndicate operating within the state, arresting four individuals and recovering multiple stolen vehicles.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Blessing Agabe, said the arrests followed intelligence-led operations that targeted a network involved in the sale and distribution of stolen vehicles.
According to her, the breakthrough began with the arrest of a key suspect, Paul Nwabueze, who had previously evaded capture after being linked to an earlier vehicle theft case.
“Operatives acting on credible intelligence apprehended Paul Nwabueze, who had been on the run after his involvement in a reported case of vehicle theft,” Agabe said.
“His confession provided useful leads that enabled officers to track and arrest other members of the syndicate.”
She explained that investigations revealed the group operated as a coordinated network engaged in stealing and reselling vehicles across different locations.
“Further operations led to the arrest of additional suspects connected to the syndicate, as well as individuals believed to be receivers of stolen vehicles,” she added.
Police also confirmed the recovery of five vehicles, including two Toyota Hilux trucks and three Toyota Sienna buses, suspected to have been stolen.
Agabe noted that ongoing investigations have uncovered another key figure believed to be in possession of more stolen vehicles.
“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspect and recover additional vehicles linked to the syndicate,” she said.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, urged residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their property.
“Members of the public are advised to install tracking and anti-theft devices in their vehicles and avoid leaving valuables unattended,” Adepoju said. “Prompt reporting of suspicious activities is crucial to preventing crime.”
The police reiterated their commitment to tackling organised crime through intelligence-driven strategies and collaboration with the public.
