Operatives of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command have arrested
a thief known for stealing and reselling cars.
Gatekeepers News reports that the police command in a statement released on Sunday, said it intercepted the syndicate after Abdulhamid Saidu, a mechanic, allegedly absconded with a car on October 10.
The force said it tracked the car to Plateau state where a suspect known for rebranding and selling stolen cars was arrested.
The statement goes, “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.”
“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).”
“Mr. Olaoluwa unaware of the motives of the mechanic, released his vehicle with its documents inside the car.”
“But 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.”
“At Abang’s workshop, two additional vehicles—a Hyundai Accent and a Peugeot 208 — likely stolen as well, in the process of being rebranded.”
The force noted that Abang admitted to having ready buyers on standby to whom he has sold over 16 stolen vehicles in the past four years.
The statement added, “Abang 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. PPRO FCT: 07038979348.”
