On Wednesday, police authorities announced the successful dismantling of a sophisticated cartel dealing in jewelry worth billions of naira, all of which were obtained from armed robbery operations in Abuja and its surrounding areas.
This significant development was disclosed in a statement by Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, who provided detailed insights into the operations and the subsequent investigation that led to the arrests.
Adejobi recounted a particularly brazen armed robbery incident that occurred on April 28th at the residence of a police officer in the Lugbe area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This officer, attached to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, experienced a terrifying ordeal when robbers broke into his home. During the incident, the officer was nearly smothered, highlighting the violent nature of the attack.
The robbers made away with a secured safe containing a treasure trove of valuables, including jewelry, money, academic certificates, essential documents, phones, and other prized possessions belonging to various residents within the compound.
Crucial to the investigation was CCTV footage that captured the suspect at the crime scene. This footage has been instrumental in the forensic investigations conducted by the police, providing pivotal evidence that has guided the subsequent inquiries.
As the investigation unfolded, the trail of the stolen items led to Wuse Market, a bustling commercial hub in Abuja. It was here that the stolen jewellery was allegedly purchased by an individual identified as Alhaji Auwal.
Adejobi highlighted that despite police warnings issued to the FCT Gold Dealers Association, advising them against purchasing the stolen gold through their joint WhatsApp platform, Alhaji Auwal facilitated its acquisition. He went further, instructing his associates on the handling and distribution of the stolen items, indicating a well-organized and coordinated operation.
The investigation, spearheaded by the Force Intelligence Department, revealed a deeper, more alarming connection. It was uncovered that Alhaji Auwal, along with his sons and other associates, were part of an entrenched cartel involved in dealing with stolen jewellery. This group has been linked to numerous similar cases currently under investigation at various police formations within the FCT.
The depth of their operations and the scale of their activities have raised significant concerns about the extent of criminal networks operating in the region.
In a significant breakthrough, 26 suspects were arrested in connection with this case. These individuals, along with others currently in custody, are being detained legally under a court order. Adejobi assured that they will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigations, countering any contrary news circulating about the case.
This legal procedure underscores the commitment of the police force to ensure that justice is served and that those involved in such heinous activities are held accountable.
This operation marks a critical victory for the police in their ongoing efforts to combat armed robbery and dismantle criminal networks in the FCT. The thorough investigative work, combined with the strategic use of technology and intelligence, has been pivotal in cracking this case.
As the police continue their investigations, there is a renewed sense of vigilance and determination to curb the activities of such cartels and ensure the safety and security of residents in Abuja and beyond.
The public awaits further developments as the case proceeds to court, hopeful that this significant bust will serve as a deterrent to other criminal elements and reinforce the message that crime will not go unpunished.
The police force’s commitment to protecting citizens and upholding the rule of law remains unwavering, as demonstrated by this successful operation.
