By Ojodale Ogbaje
Operatives of the Naval Base Abuja have apprehended a suspected member of a vehicle theft syndicate linked to the theft of more than 50 vehicles across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This is contained in a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, on Thursday in Abuja.
Folorunsho said the suspect, Habeeb Ajadi, was intercepted by the navy operatives while attempting to leave the FCT during an intelligence-led operation.
He said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly impersonated an inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service to facilitate his criminal activities.
According to him, the suspect confessed to belonging to a vehicle theft syndicate responsible for stealing vehicles from different parts of the FCT.
He said investigations further revealed that the syndicate operated across state boundaries, with stolen vehicles allegedly disposed of through accomplices outside the FCT.
Folorunsho said efforts were ongoing in collaboration with other security agencies to arrest other members of the criminal network.
He added that the suspect, alongside relevant exhibits and evidence, had been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and prosecution.
The Navy spokesman reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration in support of national security and ensuring a safe and secure environment for Nigerians. END
