Police Dismantle 26-Member Syndicate Trading Stolen Jewelry in Abuja
By Johnson Idowu
A total of 26 individuals have been apprehended in connection with a robbery in the Lugbe area of Abuja, where jewelry, cash, and other valuables were stolen.
According to Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who made the announcement on Wednesday, reports of a robbery at the Inspector General of Police’s residence were false.
Adejobi explained that CCTV footage from the crime scene identified the suspects, who had also attempted to kill a police officer during the robbery.
Investigations revealed that the suspects were part of a syndicate trading in stolen jewelry worth billions of naira. The police located the syndicate’s base in Wuse Market, Abuja, and arrested Alhaji Auwal, who was allegedly in charge of buying the stolen goods.
“Despite warnings to the FCT Gold Dealers Association against purchasing stolen gold through their joint WhatsApp platform, Alhaji Auwal continued to facilitate its purchase and instructed his associates on handling the items,” Adejobi stated.
Further investigations by the Force Intelligence Department connected Alhaji Auwal, his sons, and associates to previous cases involving stolen jewelry. The 26 suspects are being held legally under a court order and will face charges once investigations are complete.
Regarding the alleged robbery at the IGP’s residence, Adejobi clarified that the incident occurred at another police officer’s residence in the FCT and that the IGP’s residence remains secure.
“It is important to clarify that no robbery, burglary, or theft occurred at the IGP’s residence or any official Nigeria Police Force facility. The rumors are baseless and misleading,” Adejobi said.
The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law, treating all suspects according to due process. The public is urged to disregard false reports maligning the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force.
