The Nigerian Navy has dealt a blow on a vehicle syndicate involved in the stealing of over 50 vehicles across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
It also arrested and handed over a suspect to the Nigeria police.
This was made known by the Navy Spokesman, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The operation was executed by operatives of Naval Base, Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the security architecture of the FCT, through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with sister security agencies, the statement said.
Folorunsho said that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect, Mr Habeeb Ajadi, allegedly impersonated an Inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service to facilitate his criminal activities. He said that the suspect was intercepted while trying to leave the FCT.
The navy’s spokesman also stated that the suspect confessed to being a member of a vehicle theft syndicate, which steals vehicles from different parts of the FCT.
Investigations also revealed that the criminal network crossed state boundaries with stolen vehicles allegedly disposed of through accomplices outside the FCT, he said.
“Efforts are underway with other relevant security agencies to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
“The suspect along with the relevant exhibits and evidence has been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Capital Territory Command for further investigation and prosecution as per established inter-agency procedures,” the naval spokesman said.