Police Bust Vehicle Theft Syndicate in Kaduna, Recover 10 Stolen Cars, Arrest Ex-Soldier and Two Others
The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a suspected armed robbery and vehicle theft syndicate in Kaduna State, arresting three suspects and recovering 10 stolen vehicles in a major intelligence-led operation.
Operatives of the Force Intelligence Department – Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) carried out the operation, leading to the arrest of Abubakar Musa (36), Hassan Umar (30), and Joshua Raphael (20) on March 16, 2026.
Preliminary investigations identified Abubakar Musa as the principal suspect and a dismissed corporal of the Nigerian Army who allegedly posed as a serving soldier to evade detection while coordinating criminal activities.
Police findings further revealed that the group specialised in stealing vehicles and transporting them across locations, often tampering with or removing registration details to conceal their identities and ownership.
The operation led to the recovery of 10 vehicles of different makes, including Toyota Hilux trucks, Toyota Corolla cars, a Pontiac Vibe GT, a Honda vehicle, a Lexus car, and a Toyota RAV4 SUV. Several of the recovered vehicles were found without registration numbers.
Authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate who remain at large, as well as recover additional stolen property.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the operatives for their professionalism and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to tackling organised crime and safeguarding lives and property across the country.
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