Police Thwart Plot to Sell Stolen Luxury Vehicle, Arrest Five Suspects

The Delta State Police Command has arrested five individuals involved in the theft of a luxury vehicle owned by the logistics company, Young Shall Grow Motors. The suspects had planned to steal and dismantle the vehicle for sale in Delta State. According to the police spokesperson, SP Edafe Bright, the case is considered “unique” due to how the vehicle was stolen. One of the suspects, a former panel beater for Young Shall Grow Motors, allegedly used insider knowledge to target the vehicle. He had been observing the company’s parking practices in Abia State, where the vehicle was parked unlocked with the keys left in the ignition. The suspect contacted an accomplice, who drove the stolen vehicle from Aba to Warri, Delta State, intending to sell it to scrap dealers. However, their plan was thwarted after a warning from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ekpan, Delta State, who had cautioned scrap dealers against buying vehicles without proper documentation. This led the dealers to request vehicle receipts, raising suspicions and prompting police intervention. The suspects were intercepted while attempting to dismantle the vehicle in a bush. SP Bright credited the arrest to the police’s intelligence and information gathering. During interrogation, one suspect, Michael Odubo, admitted to planning the theft and intended sale, stating they planned to sell the vehicle for ₦5 million, despite the engine alone being valued at ₦13 million. Bright emphasized that criminal activity does not lead to gain, advising the public against seeking quick financial rewards through illegal means. He also urged vehicle owners to take better security measures to prevent theft, especially not leaving vehicle keys in the ignition. The suspects will face charges as the investigation continues.