The Jigawa State Police Command has apprehended a suspected car thief, Alhassan Isa, popularly known as Tata, in connection with a stolen vehicle.
Isa, a resident of Shuwarin town in Kiyawa Local Government Area, was found in possession of a Mazda 323 Model F with registration number MNA 139HK, registered in Niger State.
According to a statement issued on Sunday in Dutse by the Jigawa State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Lawan Adam, the vehicle belonged to Abdurrahman Sadiq, a staff member of the Nigerian Institute of Oil Palm Research.
Sadiq had initially reported the theft to the Dutse Police Division on February 21, 2025.
“Sadiq had parked his vehicle at Aujara village in Jahun Local Government Area and forgot the key inside. When he woke up the next morning, he discovered that the vehicle was missing,” the statement read.
Following the report, detectives from the Dutse Division and the State Criminal Investigation Department launched an inquiry. Their efforts led to the identification and arrest of the suspect.
During interrogation, Isa allegedly confessed to stealing the vehicle. Further investigations revealed that he was an ex-convict with a history of motorcycle and tricycle theft.
SP Adam confirmed that the suspect would be prosecuted in court.
“We will ensure that justice is served in this case,” Adam stated.
In light of the incident, the Jigawa State Police Command advised vehicle owners to exercise caution, secure their cars properly, and avoid leaving valuables inside.
The command also urged the public to report any suspicious activities or cases of stolen vehicles to the authorities while reaffirming its commitment to maintaining law and order in the state.