The Kano State Police Command has apprehended a suspected car thief and recovered an abandoned Rav-4 motor vehicle as part of its intensified efforts to combat car theft in the state.

This was contained in a statement issued on January 6, 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.

According to the statement, the vehicle, an ash-colored Rav-4 with registration number YAB 881 JK (Abuja), was discovered abandoned during a patrol by the Anti-Car Theft Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) along Kwanar Ungogo in Ungogo Local Government Area on December 28, 2024.

Following preliminary investigations, the principal suspect, 40-year-old Bala Sani from Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State, was apprehended on January 4, 2025, at his residence in Kwado Quarters, Katsina LGA.

According to the police, the suspect confessed to conspiring with an accomplice to steal the vehicle from Zaria, Kaduna State.

“He admitted to driving the vehicle to Kano with the intention of selling it. However, upon noticing police officers near Ungogo Junction, he abandoned the vehicle and fled to his hometown,” the police stated.

The recovered vehicle is currently in police custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

“The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of our investigation,” said SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Police Public Relations Officer.

The Kano State Police Command has called on the rightful owner of the vehicle to come forward with proof of ownership.

“We urge the owner to report to the Police Public Relations Office in Kano State Command or contact 08067885568 for further information,” the statement added.

Commissioner of Police Salman Dogo Garba commended the Anti-Car Theft Unit for their swift action and urged the public to remain vigilant.

“We call on all residents to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or use the NPF Rescue Me App, which is available on the Play Store. Together, we can ensure the safety and security of our communities,” he said.

Residents can also reach the Kano State Police Command through its emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926.

Kano: Police arrest suspected car thief, recover stolen vehicle