Six Months After Theft, Stolen Lapai Vehicle Recovered by Police

Two suspects arrested as investigation uncovers alleged vehicle theft linked to Maraban-Gulu axis

The Niger State Police Command has recovered a vehicle allegedly stolen in Lapai six months ago and arrested two suspects in connection with the theft following a coordinated operation involving the Kano State Police Command.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the suspects, Dauda Saidu, 23, of Dindare Village, Tofa Area of Kaduna State, and Hassan Aliyu, 28, of Faki Ikara Area of Kaduna State, were initially arrested in Kano State over allegations of robbing passengers using a commercial vehicle.

Police said that during interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the vehicle used in their operations had been stolen from the Lapai area of Niger State.

Following the development, operatives attached to the Lapai Police Division were dispatched to Kano State to take over the case and continue investigations.

According to the police, the suspects admitted that they conspired to steal a Volkswagen vehicle with registration number WDL 765 ZY at Maraban-Gulu in Lapai about six months ago.

Investigators further alleged that the vehicle was subsequently taken to Kaduna State, where it was used for commercial transportation between Kaduna and Kano, as well as other unlawful activities.

The Police Command confirmed that the vehicle has been recovered and the suspects are currently undergoing further investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

SP Abiodun said efforts are ongoing to identify and locate the rightful owner of the recovered vehicle.