The Federal Capital Territory(FCT), police command has announced the arrest of one Steven Abang, who specializes in receiving stolen vehicles, rebrand them and sell to innocent buyers.
The suspect was said to have been arrested after one Philemon Olaoluwa, reported to the Central Police Divisional Headquarters that his vehicle—a Honda Accord 2006 model, ash in colour with registration number RBC 40 NW—was stolen.
FCT, police public relations officer, Josephine Adeh, who made this known, said Mr Olaoluwa’s car developed a mechanical fault, a friend recommended he engage a mechanic from Apo Mechanic Village, FCT, named Abdulhamid Saidu (currently at large).
Adeh, in a statement, said Mr. Olaoluwa unaware of the motives of the mechanic, released his vehicle with its documents inside the car but that instead of repairing it, Saidu disappeared with the car.
“Thanks to Digital Tracking technology installed in the vehicle, FCT Police Command operatives tracked the car to Rayfield, Jos in Plateau State, where it was discovered with Steven Abang—a notorious suspect known for receiving, rebranding and selling off stolen vehicles.
“Abang confessed that he received the vehicle from his accomplice, Saidu.
At Abang’s workshop, two additional vehicles—a Hyundai Accent and a Peugeot 208— likely stolen as well, in the process of being rebranded.
“Abang admitted to having ready buyers on standby whom he has rebranded and sold over 16 stolen vehicles to in the past four years.
“Abang is now in custody and will be charged to court following further investigations.
“Let’s remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help combat car theft and other crimes in FCT to the FCT Police emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, and 07057337653 PCB: 09022222352, CRU: 08107314192.
PPRO FCT: 07038979348”.
