In Rivers State, the Police Command has made significant arrests, capturing a herbalist and 25 other individuals involved in car theft and various criminal activities throughout the state.
During a recent parade of suspects at the police headquarters, the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, shared that these individuals were connected to the theft of approximately 79 cars in the state.
Disu disclosed that among the arrested suspects was a herbalist who provided charms to aid in the criminals’ operations, and is now assisting with the ongoing investigation.
The CP revealed, “A strategic effort by the officers of our tactical team was initiated following a noticeable spike in car thefts and robberies. I am pleased to announce the apprehension of 26 suspects who have been involved in stealing and robbing vehicles.”
He also highlighted the significant capture of Chidozie Onyekwe, the gang’s leader, and Kelechi Uzogwe, a mechanic skilled in disabling trackers from stolen cars.
“Chidozie is the mastermind behind the car theft operations in Rivers State, providing training to accomplices. Kelechi, on the other hand, specializes in tracker removal and is considered an expert mechanic,” said Disu.
“Numerous stolen vehicles were traced back to these suspects, with many of them dismantled and sold as scraps in ‘Mmbuka’ in Obosi, Onitsha. Some of the vehicles even made their way out of the country to evade detection,” he added.
“The suspects are linked to a total of 79 stolen vehicles. Many of them formed connections during their time in the Correctional Centre, with five of them being ex-convicts,” the CP noted.
Additionally, a significant number of firearms and spare keys used in the transportation of stolen vehicles have been seized by the police.