Olusegun Ariyo
The Kano state police command has arrested three suspects in connection with the theft and smuggling of a car stolen during a test drive at a dealer’s shop in the state.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the command, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the suspects, including the ringleader identified as Shamsu Yusuf, popularly known as “Chitta,” were apprehended following a coordinated tactical operation by operatives of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) led by CSP Rabiu Gidado.
The statement revealed the incident occurred on July 7 when a car dealer, Abdulqadir Abdurrahman of Gadan Kaya Quarters, Kano, reported that Chitta had approached Dangari Motors pretending to be a prospective buyer and snatched a gold-colored 2013 Toyota Corolla during a test drive.
Following the report, police tracked and arrested Yusuf along with two accomplices: 40-year-old Bashir Ladan of Shagari Quarters, Katsina, and 41-year-old Suleiman Muntari of Tudun Matawalle, Katsina. The stolen vehicle, which had already been sold in the Niger Republic, was also recovered.
“The principal suspect confessed to a series of car thefts, including the theft of a GLK Mercedes car recently. Investigations are ongoing,” the statement further revealed.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, called on car dealers to remain vigilant when dealing with buyers. He also urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
