The Benue State Police Command has smashed a suspected vehicle theft syndicate, arresting five suspects and recovering two motorcycles and a Toyota Corolla allegedly stolen from victims in Benue and neighbouring states.
DSP Peter Orchia, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Benue State Police Command, said in a statement issued on August 18 that the breakthrough followed a petition by a resident of Gboko, who reported the theft of his red Bajaj motorcycle valued at N1.34 million.
According to the statement, a suspect allegedly collected the motorcycle under the guise of borrowing it, promising to return it the following day, but disappeared with it.
Following the complaint, detectives attached to the Command Monitoring Unit launched an intelligence-led investigation, including advanced tracking, which led to the arrest of the principal suspect.
Police said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was allegedly involved in the theft of other motorcycles and a Toyota Corolla, which were subsequently taken to Dan-Anacha in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State for disposal.
According to DSP Orchia, the investigation was extended to Taraba State, where detectives arrested an alleged accomplice and three other suspects. Two red Bajaj motorcycles and the Toyota Corolla were recovered as exhibits.
The Command said efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and determine the full extent of their operations, including recovering other stolen vehicles.
The PPRO quoted Commissioner of Police CP Cletus C.N. Nwadiobu as urging members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the police.
He assured residents that the Command would continue to intensify its efforts to protect lives and property and bring suspected criminals to justice.
