Rita Odafe
Five Arrested for Attempted Car Theft
The Delta State Police Command has apprehended five individuals suspected of attempting to steal a luxury vehicle owned by Young Shall Grow Motors.
The suspects reportedly intended to steal and dismantle the vehicle with plans to sell the parts locally in Delta State.
During a press conference, police spokesperson SP Edafe Bright characterized the theft as “unique” given the specific tactics the suspects used.
Bright explained that the suspects had insider knowledge about the vehicle’s security features.
“One of them previously worked for Young Shall Grow as a panel beater. After he was let go, he kept an eye on the company’s vehicle parking practices,” Bright noted.
He elaborated that the former employee observed that they often left their vehicle unlocked and the keys in the ignition, making it easier to steal.
One suspect got in touch with a confederate to drive the stolen vehicle from Aba, Abia State, to Warri, Delta State, where they planned to sell it to scrap dealers.
However, their scheme was foiled thanks to a proactive alert issued by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ekpan, Delta State.
“The DPO had warned scrap dealers against purchasing vehicles without proper documentation, leading them to insist on viewing receipts and vehicle details before any transaction,” Bright mentioned.
Due to the absence of relevant documentation, the police were able to investigate and subsequently stopped the vehicle in a secluded area where the suspects intended to dismantle it.
“In summary, our intelligence led us to intercept the vehicle just as they were about to disassemble it,” SP Bright stated.
During questioning, one suspect, Michael Odubo, confessed to his involvement in the theft.
“I saw the vehicle last week while in Aba and arranged with the driver to take it to Warri for sale,” Odubo recounted.
When asked how much they intended to sell it for, Odubo stated they had planned to sell the vehicle for ₦5 million, while Bright revealed its engine alone was worth ₦13 million.
“There are no rewards in crime; it’s a reality. Eventually, you’ll be caught. These young individuals wanted to sell a luxury vehicle for a mere ₦5 million,” Bright explained.
He urged the public to be proactive in securing their vehicles and to be vigilant against suspicious activities.
The suspects are currently facing charges as investigations continue.
Bright praised the DPO’s proactive measures, encouraging diligence within the community to help support law enforcement efforts.
“Thanks to the DPO’s foresight, the theft of this vehicle was curtailed. Vehicle owners should avoid leaving keys in the ignition. It’s a simple action that can prevent theft,” he cautioned.
