The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja Command of Nigeria Police have busted a notorious car theft syndicate, notorious for receiving, rebranding, and selling stolen vehicles, and recovered three stolen cars in the process.
SP Josephine Adeh Police Public Relations Officer FCT Abuja Command made the disclosure in a statement.
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She said on October 10, 2024, Mr. Philemon Olaoluwa reported to the Central Police Divisional Headquarters after his vehicle—a Honda Accord 2006 model, ash in colour with registration number RBC 40 NW—was stolen.
She explained that Mr Olaoluwa’s car developed a mechanical fault, a friend recommended he engage a mechanic from Apo Mechanic Village, FCT, named Abdulhamid Saidu (currently at large).
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She noted Mr. Olaoluwa unaware of the motives of the mechanic, released his vehicle with its documents inside the car, noting instead of repairing it, Saidu disappeared with the car.
“Thanks to 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.
SP Adeh revealed that at Abang’s workshop, two additional vehicles—a Hyundai Accent and a Peugeot 208— likely stolen as well, in the process of being rebranded.
According to her Abang admitted to having ready buyers on standby whom he has rebranded and sold over 16 stolen vehicles to in the past four years.
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He 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.”
