Benue: Police bust vehicle theft gang, recover two motorcycles, car

In Benue State, Nigeria, a group of thieves specializing in stolen vehicles has been dismantled by the police, with five suspects apprehended and two motorcycles and a car seized. The police confirmed this on August 18, 2026, through a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu. The operation was prompted by an anonymous tip-off from a resident of Gboko who had his red Bajaj motorcycle worth N1.34 million stolen.

The suspect allegedly tricked the victim into letting him borrow the bike, promising to return it the next day. The police conducted an intelligence-led investigation, using advanced tracking methods that led to the arrest of the main suspect and his associates. The investigation extended to Taraba State where three more suspects were arrested.

The recovered vehicles include two red Bajaj motorcycles and a Toyota Corolla, all retained as evidence. The police are still searching for the remaining members of the gang and gathering evidence to determine the full scale of their criminal activities. The Commissioner of Police called on residents to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities.

The police emphasized their commitment to protecting citizens and holding criminals accountable for their actions. The investigation into this case is ongoing, with further updates expected.