Police Uncover Car Theft Ring in Abuja

***Apprehend Key Suspect in Stolen vehicle Syndicate

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully cracked down on a notorious car theft syndicate involved in receiving, rebranding, and reselling stolen vehicles.
The operation culminated in the arrest of a primary suspect following a meticulously coordinated investigation that traced a stolen Honda Accord to a mechanic’s workshop in Plateau State.

In a statement released on Sunday, the FCT Police Command shared that the case originated on October 10, 2024, when Mr. Philemon Olaoluwa reported the theft of his 2006 Honda Accord (registration number RBC 40 NW) to the Central Police Divisional Headquarters. Olaoluwa’s car had developed mechanical issues, and a friend recommended a mechanic from Apo Mechanic Village in Abuja, identified as Abdulhamid Saidu, who is now on the run.

Olaoluwa, unaware of the mechanic’s intentions, entrusted his vehicle and its documents to Saidu for repairs. Instead of repairing the car, Saidu vanished with it, prompting an extensive investigation.

Using advanced tracking technology, police operatives traced the vehicle to Rayfield in Jos, Plateau State, where it was found in the possession of Steven Abang. Known for his role in receiving, rebranding, and distributing stolen vehicles, Abang was taken into custody. During questioning, he reportedly confessed to acquiring the Honda Accord from Saidu, confirming his role as a receiver for stolen cars.

Upon searching Abang’s workshop, authorities discovered two additional vehicles — a Hyundai Accent and a Peugeot 208 — suspected to be stolen, as they were in the process of being rebranded. Abang admitted to having a network of ready buyers and disclosed that over the past four years, he had rebranded and sold more than 16 stolen vehicles.

The suspect remains in police custody, with charges expected to follow as the investigation unfolds.

This bust is part of a broader effort by law enforcement agencies across the country to dismantle car theft syndicates. Earlier this year, in June, the Lagos State Police Command arrested another suspect, Kazeem Ahmed, who specialized in using fabricated master keys to steal vehicles, later selling them to auto parts dealers in Lagos.

The FCT Police Command has assured residents of its ongoing commitment to eliminating vehicle theft and safeguarding property across the region.