Following a series of car thefts and other criminal activities in Rivers State, the State Police Command has taken into custody a herbalist and 25 other individuals believed to be involved in the crimes.
During a press briefing at the police headquarters, the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, disclosed that the suspects have been linked to the theft of approximately 79 vehicles in the state.
Among the apprehended suspects is a herbalist who allegedly provided charms to aid the criminals in their operations, and is currently assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Addressing the media, CP Disu stated, “In light of the escalating cases of car theft and robberies, we assigned our tactical team to probe into the matter. I am pleased to report that we have arrested 26 suspects who have been engaging in vehicle theft and related offenses.”
The Commissioner highlighted the significant arrest of Chidozie Onyekwe, the gang’s ringleader, and Kelechi Uzogwe, a skilled mechanic known for removing tracking devices from stolen vehicles.
“Chidozie is the mastermind behind the group that specializes in stealing cars in Rivers State. He not only operates within the state but also trains other individuals. He has connections to all the suspects previously arrested for car theft,” CP Disu elaborated.
“Similarly, Kelechi Uzogwe is proficient in disabling vehicle trackers. Most stolen vehicles from Rivers State pass through him for tracker removal. He is also a proficient mechanic,” he added.
According to the Commissioner, the stolen cars were often transported to Anambra and Kano State, with some even leaving the country. The vehicles were reportedly dismantled and sold as scrap metal in ‘Mmbuka’, Obosi, Onitsha.
“The total number of vehicles tied to the suspects currently in custody is 79. A majority of these suspects were acquainted with each other during their time in the Correctional Centre, and around five of them are former convicts,” CP Disu remarked.
Furthermore, the police chief confirmed the recovery of numerous firearms and spare keys used by the suspects in facilitating the movement of stolen vehicles.