Operatives of Nigeria Police Force in Lagos have arrested three suspected members of a syndicate allegedly responsible for stealing and vandalising car parts across residential estates in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the the arrests were carried out by officers from the Ilasan police station in Lagos. The suspects were identified as Obinna Okeke, Emmanuel Anyanwu, and Jude Onouha, who is believed to be the leader of the group.
Speaking at a press briefing, Moshood Jimoh, the outgoing Lagos commissioner of police, revealed that the syndicate operated by disguising themselves as security personnel. They reportedly wore fake uniforms to gain access into estates, particularly in the Lekki area, where they targeted parked vehicles.
The police said the suspects specialised in removing valuable car components such as brainboxes, wiring systems, side mirrors, tapping glasses, and other control devices, which they later sold at spare parts markets within the state.
Investigations further showed that the gang used a modified Mercedes car jack designed to resemble a firearm, enabling them to intimidate estate security and residents while posing as operatives on official duty.
Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and those involved in buying the stolen items, as the police intensify operations to curb the growing trend of car part theft in Lagos.
