Police arrest suspected Abuja car thief notorious for selling rebranded vehicles in Jos

Police arrest suspected Abuja car thief notorious for selling rebranded vehicles in Jos

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) command of the Nigeria Police Force has apprehended Steven Abang, a man alleged to be notorious for handling, altering, and selling stolen vehicles.

Operatives from the FCT Police Command reportedly tracked a stolen car to Rayfield in Jos, Plateau State, where Abang was taken into custody.

According to Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, on Sunday, Abang confessed to selling more than 16 stolen vehicles to willing buyers over the past four years. He not only admitted to the crime but also disclosed that he modified these vehicles before selling them.

Adeh confirmed that Abang is currently in custody and will face legal charges following the completion of further investigations.

The statement reads: “On October 10, 2024, Mr. Philemon Olaoluwa reported to the Central Police Divisional Headquarters after his vehicle—a Honda Accord 2006 model, ash in colour with registration number RBC 40 NW—was stolen.

“Mr Olaoluwa’s car developed a mechanical fault, and a friend recommended he engage a mechanic from Apo Mechanic Village, FCT, named Abdulhamid Saidu (currently at large).

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“Mr. Olaoluwa, unaware of the mechanic’s intentions, handed over his vehicle with the documents left inside. Instead of repairing it, Saidu absconded with the car.

“Thanks to Digital Tracking technology installed in the vehicle, FCT Police Command operatives tracked it to Rayfield, Jos in Plateau State, where it was found with Steven Abang—a notorious figure known for handling, altering, and selling stolen vehicles.

“Abang confessed that he had received the vehicle from his accomplice, Saidu.

“At Abang’s workshop, two additional vehicles—a Hyundai Accent and a Peugeot 208—were discovered in the process of being altered, suggesting they too may have been stolen.

“Abang admitted to having a network of buyers for whom he had rebranded and sold over 16 stolen vehicles in the past four years.

“Abang is now in custody and will be charged to court following further investigations.

“We urge the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to assist in tackling car theft and other crimes in the FCT. For emergencies, please contact the FCT Police emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, and 07057337653 PCB: 09022222352, CRU: 08107314192. PPRO FCT: 07038979348.”

Police arrest suspected Abuja car thief notorious for selling rebranded vehicles in Jos