The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its support for internal security operations with the arrest of a suspected member of a vehicle theft syndicate allegedly linked to the theft of more than 50 vehicles across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was carried out by operatives of Naval Base Abuja as part of ongoing intelligence-led efforts to strengthen the security architecture of the FCT in collaboration with other security agencies.
The statement disclosed that the suspect, Mr. Habeeb Ajadi, was intercepted while attempting to leave the FCT following intelligence gathered by the naval operatives.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly impersonated an Inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service to facilitate his criminal activities. He reportedly confessed to being a member of a vehicle theft syndicate responsible for stealing vehicles from different parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
Further investigations indicated that the criminal network operated across state boundaries, with stolen vehicles allegedly disposed of through accomplices outside the FCT. The Navy said efforts are ongoing in collaboration with other relevant security agencies to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
In line with established inter-agency procedures, the suspect, alongside relevant exhibits and evidence recovered during the operation, has been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Capital Territory Command, for further investigation and prosecution.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration in support of national security and sustaining efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all Nigerians.
