The Sokoto State command of the Nigeria Police Force has arrested Austin Anthony, aged 44, and Mansur Abubakar, aged 32, on charges of involvement in a car theft syndicate.
As confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by the Sokoto State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Ahmed Rufai, the arrests were facilitated by a swift reaction to a distress call.
Rufai indicated that the suspects were taken into custody on December 5, 2024, following a report made by Adamu Muhammad and Kabiru Shehu, whose vehicles—a Corolla LE in ash colour and a Pontiac Vibe—were reported stolen from the Badon Barade Area of Sokoto.
“The police swiftly swung into action, alerting checkpoints along the Birnin-Kebbi Road, where one of the stolen vehicles was found being driven by one of the suspects.
“Further investigation led to the recovery of two additional vehicles and the arrest of another suspect.
“Notably, Austin Anthony had previously been arrested on August 28, 2024, for possessing three stolen vehicles and was arraigned in Court for the same offense.
“The Sokoto State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Ahmed Musa, urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police formation or through the Command’s Emergency GSM phone number: 08032345167,” the statement reads.