The Kano State Police Command has arrested a suspected car thief and recovered a stolen Rav-4 vehicle as part of its ongoing efforts to tackle car theft in the state.
A statement released on January 6, 2025, by Police Public Relations Officer Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa revealed that the vehicle, an ash-colored Rav-4 with registration number YAB 881 JK (Abuja), was found abandoned during a patrol by the Anti-Car Theft Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on December 28, 2024. The vehicle was discovered along Kwanar Ungogo in Ungogo Local Government Area.
Following initial investigations, the prime suspect, 40-year-old Bala Sani from Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State, was arrested on January 4, 2025, at his home in Kwado Quarters, Katsina LGA.
The police reported that Sani confessed to collaborating with an accomplice to steal the vehicle in Zaria, Kaduna State. “He admitted to driving the vehicle to Kano with the intention of selling it. However, upon noticing police officers near Ungogo Junction, he abandoned the vehicle and fled to his hometown,” the police stated.
The recovered vehicle is now in police custody, and the investigation is ongoing. “The suspect will be charged in court once the investigation is concluded,” said SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.
The police have urged the rightful owner of the vehicle to come forward with proof of ownership. “We encourage the owner to report to the Police Public Relations Office at the Kano State Command or contact 08067885568 for further details,” the statement added.
Kano State Police Commissioner Salman Dogo Garba praised the Anti-Car Theft Unit for their prompt response and encouraged the public to stay alert. “We urge residents to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or use the NPF Rescue Me App, available on the Play Store. Together, we can ensure the safety and security of our communities,” he said.
Residents can also contact the Kano State Police Command through its emergency numbers: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926.
Peoplesmind
