The Delta State Police Command has arrested five suspects involved in the theft of a luxury vehicle belonging to Young Shall Grow Motors. The suspects allegedly plotted to steal and dismantle the vehicle for sale in Warri, Delta State.
Speaking during a parade of the suspects, the command’s spokesperson, SP Edafe Bright, described the case as “unique” due to the insider knowledge exploited in the theft. According to Bright, one of the suspects, a former employee of the company, had monitored the parking habits in Aba, Abia State, and discovered that the vehicle was often left unlocked with the keys in the ignition.
The suspect collaborated with an accomplice who drove the vehicle to Warri, intending to sell it to scrap dealers. However, their plan unraveled after warnings issued by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ekpan to scrap dealers not to purchase vehicles without proper documentation.
Bright explained, “The DPO had proactively cautioned scrap dealers, prompting them to demand receipts and vehicle particulars before any transaction. The lack of documentation raised suspicions, leading to police interception.”
The vehicle was found in a bush where the suspects planned to dismantle it. “Through intelligence gathering, we discovered their location and arrested five suspects,” Bright stated.
During interrogation, one of the suspects, Michael Odubo, admitted his role, revealing plans to sell the vehicle for ₦5 million. However, Bright noted that the vehicle’s engine alone is valued at ₦13 million.
“This underscores the futility of criminality,” Bright said. “There is no gain in these acts; at some point, you will be caught. Imagine these young men attempting to sell a vehicle worth much more for just ₦5 million.”
Bright also advised vehicle owners to take precautionary measures, such as avoiding leaving keys in the ignition. “Police cannot be everywhere at once. We urge the public to self-police and remain vigilant. If you see something, say something.”
The suspects will face criminal charges as investigations continue. Bright commended the proactive efforts of the DPO and encouraged the public to report suspicious activities promptly.
