The Kano State Police Command has successfully recovered two vehicles reported stolen in separate incidents while arresting one suspect during ongoing operations aimed at dismantling vehicle theft networks.
The recoveries were made by officers attached to the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s intelligence-driven policing strategy.
Toyota Hilux Recovered After Theft in Kano
According to the police, one of the recovered vehicles was a white Toyota Hilux with registration number KMC 25, which was reported stolen on July 26.
The owner, identified as Zaiyyad Farouk, told investigators that his driver had parked the pickup truck along Lamido Crescent in Tarauni Local Government Area at about 10:35 p.m. When he returned, the vehicle had disappeared.
Following a swift investigation, police operatives tracked the vehicle and recovered it from a suspect identified as Abdussalam Salisu in Kurna Asabe Quarters, Kano.
Authorities confirmed that the vehicle has been returned to its rightful owner after completing the necessary verification process.
Police added that efforts are ongoing to arrest another suspect who allegedly fled during the operation, as well as other members of the criminal network.
Stolen Hyundai Elantra Traced to Jigawa State
In another breakthrough, officers also recovered a black Hyundai Elantra that had been stolen on July 10 from the premises of Annur Mosque in Abuja.
Acting on intelligence, investigators traced the vehicle to Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
Police said the suspects abandoned the vehicle and escaped after noticing the approaching security team during a coordinated operation conducted on July 22.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects are members of an interstate vehicle theft syndicate allegedly operating across Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano States.
The recovered Hyundai Elantra is currently undergoing documentation before being handed back to its owner in Abuja.
Police Intensify Hunt for Fleeing Suspects
The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, praised the Special Intervention Squad for its professionalism and quick response, describing the operations as a major success in the fight against organized vehicle theft.
He assured residents that police would continue pursuing fleeing suspects and dismantling criminal networks operating within and outside Kano State.
Bakori also urged vehicle owners to improve security measures around their vehicles and promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
He emphasized that public cooperation remains essential in preventing crime and enhancing security across the state.