The Nigerian Navy has struck at a vehicle syndicate involved in the stealing of over 50 vehicles across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
It also arrested and handed over a suspect to the Nigeria police.
The Navy Spokesman, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja.
The operation was carried out by operatives of Naval Base, Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the security architecture of the FCT, through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with sister security agencies, the statement said.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect, Mr Habeeb Ajadi, allegedly impersonated an Inspector of the Nigerian Correctional Service to facilitate his criminal activities, Folorunsho said, adding that he was intercepted while trying to leave the FCT.
The spokesman of the navy also said that the suspect confessed to his role in a vehicle theft syndicate, which steals vehicles from different areas of the FCT.
He said investigations also showed that the criminal network spanned state boundaries, with stolen vehicles allegedly disposed of through accomplices outside the FCT.
“Efforts are underway with other relevant security agencies to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
“The suspect along with the relevant exhibits and evidence have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Capital Territory Command for further investigation and prosecution as per established inter-agency procedures,” the naval spokesman said.
