The Borno State Police Command has made significant strides in combating car theft with the recent arrest of two suspects, Paul and Modu Ishaku, both aged 39. The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, shared updates in Maiduguri regarding the ongoing investigation and recovery operations. Notably, six stolen vehicles were recovered from the suspects, illustrating the effectiveness of the police’s crack detective squad in addressing the rising incidents of vehicle theft in the region. The operation was initiated following a report by Musa Abubakar, who stated that his Toyota Corolla was stolen from his residence, prompting a swift police response.
During the investigation, police uncovered that Mari Paul was a prominent figure within the car theft circuit and had a history of similar offenses. He was apprehended on September 9, 2024, and charged with the theft of the Toyota Corolla. The arrest led to the discovery of the vehicle along with additional stolen cars after a thorough investigation. The police revealed that both Paul and Ishaku conspired in the theft and sale of these vehicles, with Paul’s prime modus operandi involving breaking and entering into homes to steal directly from the victims.
Mari Paul admitted to a particularly troubling strategy: breaking into his victims’ homes, locking them inside, and stealing their vehicles without arousing suspicion. In a troubling revelation, he confessed to having stolen a car while its owner was secured indoors. His accomplice, Modu Ishaku, confessed his involvement in the distribution of the stolen vehicles, revealing a network that included several cars, notably three Toyota Camrys, two Hondas, and a Toyota Corolla LE. This partnership has highlighted the extensive operations of vehicle theft networks in Maiduguri.
In another related case, the police reported an incident involving Luka Mora, who was a victim of a snatching incident where his Infinix Smart 7 phone and cash amounting to N143,410 were taken while he was in a keke napep (tricycle). The suspects, Saleh Muhammed and Adamu Muhammed, reportedly employed a tactic where they would shake the keke and distract the driver to facilitate their theft. Like the car thieves, both individuals confessed to the crime, and they too are expected to face legal proceedings.
The Borno State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to eradicating criminal activities and ensuring public safety. ASP Daso cautioned potential criminals against engaging in illegal activities, emphasizing the police’s proactive measures to combat crime within the region. The necessity for community vigilance was also highlighted, with appeals for residents to report any suspicious behavior to the authorities to enhance public safety efforts.
Ultimately, the recent arrests showcase the determination of the Borno State Police Command to dismantle criminal operations in Maiduguri and restore public confidence in safety. The combination of community cooperation and investigative diligence is critical in addressing not just vehicle theft but a broader spectrum of criminal activity in the state. The police’s call for vigilance is an essential step towards creating a safer environment for all residents.
