Police Smash Car Theft Syndicates, Recover Vehicles Worth Millions in Kano

The Kano State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing crackdown on car-snatching and tricycle theft syndicates, recovering stolen vehicles worth millions of naira within the last two weeks.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, disclosed that the successes were achieved through intelligence-led operations and strong community collaboration.

According to the Command, “within the last two weeks, the Command, through intelligence-led operations and community partnership, successfully recovered two stolen motor vehicles and one tricycle valued at several millions of naira.”

Police said the recovered items have since been returned to their rightful owners, who praised the Command for its swift and professional response.

Pontiac Vibe Recovered Hours After Theft
In one of the cases, a Pontiac Vibe valued at N12 million was recovered on May 3, 2026, in Darmanawa Quarters, Kano.

“Operatives of the Surveillance Team attached to Tarauni Area Command, acting on community intelligence, sighted the vehicle parked suspiciously,” the statement said.

Preliminary findings revealed that the vehicle had been stolen earlier that same day at about 3:00 a.m. from the owner’s residence.

“The owner was traced through the vehicle particulars, and the vehicle has since been released to him on bond,” the police added, noting that efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.

Stolen Abuja Vehicle Tracked to Kano
In another operation, the Command recovered a Toyota Corolla LE (2004 model) stolen in Abuja.

Police explained that the vehicle was stolen on April 22, 2026, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Wuse Zone 2.
“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, operatives of the Special Intervention Squad traced and recovered the vehicle at Darmanawa Lay-out in Kano,” the Command stated.

Authorities confirmed that the suspects have been identified and that the vehicle has been returned to its owner, while investigations continue.

Three Arrested Over Stolen Tricycle
The police also arrested three suspects in connection with a stolen CNG-powered tricycle.

The Command revealed that the tricycle rider was attacked and poisoned in Kaduna State before the suspects fled towards Kano.

“On May 3, 2026, the tricycle was recovered along Ring Road, Kano, and three suspects were arrested,” the statement said.

The suspects Umar Rabi’u (32), Yahaya Hannafi (20), and Amina Muhammad (21) are currently assisting police investigations.
Police Commend Public Support

CP Bakori commended officers involved in the operations for their professionalism and praised members of the public for providing timely information.

“He also appreciates community leaders and sister security agencies for their continuous support, which made these recoveries possible,” the statement added.

The Commissioner warned criminal elements to desist, stressing that the Command “will not relent in its fight against all forms of crime and criminality.”

Advice to Residents
The Police urged residents to install tracking devices in their vehicles, avoid parking in isolated areas, and promptly report suspicious activities.

“Vehicle owners should also keep proper documentation for easy identification and recovery,” the Command advised.

Residents were encouraged to contact the Police through its emergency lines or the NPF Rescue Me App to report incidents.

“Together we can keep Kano State safe and secure,” the statement concluded.