Police bust alleged stolen vehicle deal, recover N7.5m Hilux

A Toyota Hilux valued at N7.5 million and reported stolen in Rivers State has been recovered by the Adamawa State Police Command, which has also arrested two men allegedly linked to its sale.

The command said the arrests followed an investigation into allegations of criminal conspiracy and receiving stolen property. Police identified the suspects as Mustapha Suleiman of Wuro Hausa and 38-year-old Rabiu Garba of Jambutu, both in Yola North Local Government Area.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Suleiman Nguroje, explained that the breakthrough came after a complaint was lodged by Aliyu Usman, who had unknowingly bought the vehicle.

Nguroje said, “The two were arrested following a report by Aliyu Usman. The complainant discovered that the Toyota Hilux he purchased for N7.5m had been reported stolen.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle was stolen from Rivers State in June 2026 and transported to Adamawa State by a suspect identified as Mati, who is currently at large.

“The fleeing suspect allegedly conspired with the two arrested persons and sold the vehicle to the complainant.

“Upon discovering that the vehicle was stolen, Aliyu Usman promptly reported the matter to the police. Acting on the report, operatives of the command arrested the two suspects, successfully recovered the Toyota Hilux, and traced the actual owner.”

The Commissioner of Police, Kabiru Hassan, praised the buyer for reporting the matter instead of concealing it. He also advised members of the public to thoroughly verify the ownership history and documentation of vehicles before making any purchase.

The police chief directed investigators to intensify efforts to track down the fleeing suspect and ensure that everyone connected with the alleged crime is apprehended.

According to him, “Investigations are ongoing, after which the suspects will be charged to court accordingly.”