The Taraba State Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious interstate car theft syndicate, arresting four suspects and recovering multiple stolen vehicles during an operation in Jalingo.

Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Bretet announced the breakthrough during a press briefing held on Tuesday at the command's headquarters in Jalingo. According to the commissioner, the arrests took place on May 14, 2025, at approximately 5:30 p.m. following intelligence-led operations conducted by officers of the State Intelligence Department.

The operation, led by Inspector Idi Mansir Mohammed, resulted in the apprehension of four suspects around the Mile Six area of Jalingo. The suspects were identified as Mohammed Yahaya (alias Pake), 34, Mati Rabo, 34, and Danlami Musa, 32, all from Adamawa State, as well as Babayo Abdullahi, 42, from Bauchi State.

During the operation, police recovered four vehicles: a dark blue 2013/2014 SE Camry Corolla with Abuja registration number GGU539SV, an ash-colored 2003 Toyota Corolla LE with Lagos registration KJA258GF, a blue 2003 Toyota Corolla LE with Abuja registration YAB-693, and a blue 2011/2014 Toyota Corolla S with Abuja registration RSH 39CP.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects are part of a larger criminal network operating across multiple states including Taraba, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Lagos, and Rivers States. The commissioner emphasized that the success of the operation was largely due to the collaborative efforts between the police and local communities who provided valuable intelligence.

"The Command remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and property in Taraba State," Commissioner Bretet stated, issuing a stern warning to criminal elements to desist from illegal activities or face the full force of the law.

Police authorities have confirmed that efforts are currently underway to trace and return the recovered vehicles to their rightful owners. The investigation continues as authorities work to apprehend other members of the syndicate who may still be at large.

This operation marks a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against vehicle theft in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region where such criminal activities have been on the rise in recent months.