Operatives of the Naval Base Abuja have arrested a 39-year-old man suspected to be a major member of a vehicle-snatching syndicate allegedly responsible for a series of car thefts across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The suspect, Habeeb Ajadi, a graduate of Physics from Nasarawa State University, Keffi, was apprehended at Jere while reportedly travelling to Kaduna State.
According to security sources, Ajadi allegedly posed as an Inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), using a service number to conceal his activities and evade suspicion.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to stealing more than 50 vehicles from different parts of the FCT. He also identified two alleged accomplices based in Zaria, Kaduna State, who are currently being sought by security operatives.
Ajadi reportedly told investigators that the stolen vehicles were sold for between ₦1 million and ₦1.2 million each.
Confirming the arrest, the Commander of Naval Base Abuja, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, said the suspect, along with exhibits recovered during the operation, had been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution.
He added that security agencies were intensifying efforts to track down the remaining members of the suspected syndicate.
Oladipo said the operation reflects the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to strengthen proactive security operations, deepen collaboration among security agencies and enhance efforts to protect lives and property.
He also commended the cooperation among security agencies operating in the Federal Capital Territory, reaffirming the Naval Base’s commitment to denying criminal groups the opportunity to operate and ensuring the safety of residents.
