NAVY BURSTS VEHICLE THEFT MAFIA IN ABUJA

The Nigerian Navy, in support of internal security operation, intercepted a suspected member of a vehicle theft syndicate linked to the theft of more than 50 vehicles across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The operation was carried out by operatives of Naval Base, Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the security architecture of the FCT through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with sister security agencies.

In a statement on Thursday, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, said the suspect, Habeeb Ajadi, was intercepted while attempting to leave the FCT. He said preliminary investigation revealed that he allegedly impersonated an Inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service to facilitate his criminal activities.

Folorunsho said the suspect confessed to his involvement in a vehicle theft syndicate responsible for stealing vehicles from different parts of the FCT.

“Investigations also revealed that the criminal network operated across state boundaries, with stolen vehicles reportedly disposed of through accomplices outside the FCT. Efforts are ongoing with other relevant security agencies to apprehend other members of the syndicate,” Folorunsho said.

He stated that in accordance with established inter-agency procedures, the suspect, together with relevant exhibits and evidence, has been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Capital Territory Command, for further investigation and prosecution.

Similarly, the Navy has disrupted an extortion syndicate that had subjected local fishermen and other waterway users to persistent intimidation and illegal levies within the Bonny Creek axis of Rivers State.

The operation, carried out by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) BONNY in conjunction with troops of the Nigerian Army followed credible intelligence on the activities of criminal elements operating from a hideout in Asaramatoru Community.

According to Folorunsho, this forced the suspected criminals to abandon their hideout, while a search of the area led to the recovery of operational items, including a 7.62mm empty magazine, a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) butt, several ATM cards, and other items of intelligence value.

He said that engagement with members of the community revealed that the criminal group had turned the area into a sanctuary from which they launched attacks on fishermen and commuters while extorting residents and demanding proceeds from market sales.

“The operation has therefore restored confidence among the affected communities and disrupted the activities of the criminal syndicate within the Bonny Creek corridor.

“The operation also yielded valuable intelligence that will support follow-on actions aimed at identifying, tracking, and dismantling the wider criminal network operating within the area.”