Sokoto police arrest fake Army Major leading notorious car theft syndicate

The Sokoto State Command has arrested a fake military officer who leads a notorious car theft syndicate operating in Nigeria and neighbouring countries. 

The suspect, Austin Anthony, who was on a high watch list of the command, was arrested along Birnin-Kebbi road and was intercepted by the Police patrol team of the Bodinga Division.

Briefing newsmen at the command headquarters in Sokoto on Thursday, December 12, 2024, the spokesman of the command, ASP Ahmed Rufai, said the suspect, when accosted, introduced himself to the police officer as military personnel in order to get away with the said vehicle.

The PPRO said the arrest was following a Complaint of car theft reported by One Adamu Muhammad ‘M’ and Kabiru Shehu, all ‘M’ of Badon Barade Area Sokoto, that on the same date at about 0400hrs their motor vehicles Toyota Corolla LE Ash colour and Pontiac Vibe were stolen. 

“In the Course of Investigation, the suspect confessed to the crime, two additional vehicles were recovered from him, and one other suspect, Mansur Abubakar ‘M’ of Gidan Dare Area Sokoto, was arrested, the said Austin Anthony mentioned five other gang members residing in different states of the country, the investigation will be extended to their various locations with a view to arresting them,” the spokesperson said. 

“The investigation was extended, and the following items were recovered in his possession: a complete set of Army Uniforms with the rank of Major, which he has been using to avert securities attention.

“Other items seized include Fabricated Master keys and five bunches of Motor Vehicle keys, an Army ID Card with the rank of Major, three sets of Motor Vehicle Plate Numbers, 1 Banner of Nigerian Army, 2 Army Stamps and 3 Sets of Shoulder badges of Nigerian Army.

“Prior to this, the said Suspect Austin Anthony was arrested by Policemen attached to CID in possession of Three Stolen vehicles and was arraigned in court on 28/8/2024 for the same offence.

“The suspect, who is an unrepentant criminal, is presently on court bail. As soon as the investigation is completed, suspects will be charged to court for prosecution.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, has reaffirmed the commitment of the state command to apprehend all the fleeing suspects.

The CP assured the public that the Police will continue in its efforts to dismantle criminal gangs, particularly those involved in violent crimes.

He stressed that the command will maintain its aggressive stance against criminals and also ensure the safety and security of the good people of the state.

Musa lauded the good people of Sokoto State, urging them to remain vigilant, and law-abiding and continue to support the police in maintaining peace, law and order in the state.