The Rivers State Police Command has busted a 12-man car-snatching syndicate, recovering no fewer than 22 stolen vehicles in an operation spanning seven states.
Spokesperson for the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the syndicate specialised in stealing vehicles across Nigeria and smuggling them into Cameroon, where they were either sold whole or dismantled for parts.
According to her, the breakthrough followed a year-long intelligence-led operation launched in September 2024 after a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to one Enoch Daniel was stolen at Trailer Park, Onne, Port Harcourt.
“Two ex-convicts, aged 40 and 45, were first arrested. They confessed to being hired to steal the bus using hammers, each receiving N90,000 for the job,” Iringe-Koko said.
Their confessions reportedly led detectives to Kano and Akwa Ibom, where more members of the gang were rounded up. In Kano, two suspects were caught with two stolen vehicles, while in Akwa Ibom, a dismissed police officer was found in possession of 11 suspected stolen cars.
Investigations revealed the gang was coordinated by a fleeing kingpin whose criminal network operated in Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Borno, Delta, Enugu, Kano and Rivers states.
Police said an agent of the ringleader, now in custody, facilitated the smuggling of stolen vehicles to Cameroon.
One of the arrested suspects, a 53-year-old ex-convict who served as the Port Harcourt liaison, admitted collecting over N5 million in payments over eight months.
Other members included two auto-electricians who altered vehicle identities for export, a 45-year-old “spiritual leader” who doubled as a broker at Mgbuka-Obosi car scrap market in Onitsha, and a field operator who coordinated thefts in Port Harcourt.
Another suspect was caught in the act of attempting to purchase a stolen Toyota Camry.
“These arrests underscore our resolve to make Rivers State a hostile environment for criminals,” Iringe-Koko said, adding that all 12 suspects will face prosecution after investigations.
She assured the public that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the ringleader and other members still at large, urging residents to remain vigilant and share credible information with the police.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
