The Kano State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the theft and cross-border smuggling of a stolen vehicle, following a tactical operation by security operatives.
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The Command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, in a statement, confirmed that the arrest was carried out by the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) led by CSP Rabiu Gidado.
According to the police, the prime suspect, Shamsu Yusuf, popularly known as “Chitta,” allegedly posed as a prospective buyer and absconded with a gold-colored 2013 Toyota Corolla during a test drive on July 7. The vehicle was reportedly snatched from a car dealership in Kano.
The police said the suspects were tracked and apprehended during a coordinated operation. Two others arrested alongside Yusuf are Bashir Ladan and Suleiman Muntari.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the stolen vehicle had already been transported and sold in the Niger Republic. During interrogation, the ringleader, Yusuf, reportedly confessed to his involvement in multiple vehicle thefts, including the recent theft of a GLK Mercedes-Benz.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, while commending the efforts of the operatives, called on car dealers to be cautious when handling test drives with unfamiliar individuals. He also appealed to the public to cooperate with the police by reporting any suspicious movements or activities.
