The Jigawa State Police Command says it has uncovered an alleged interstate motorcycle-snatching syndicate linked to violent attacks across Jigawa, Kano and Kaduna states.
Police said the investigation began after a motorcycle was allegedly snatched from an okada rider in Aujara District of Jahun Local Government Area.
A rapid response involving police officers and vigilantes led to the recovery of the motorcycle and arrest of a suspect, according to the Command.
Investigators said that arrest subsequently led them to other alleged members of the network.
Police spokesperson SP Shi’isu Adam said suspects questioned during the investigation allegedly disclosed involvement in the theft of at least 33 motorcycles from different locations.
More seriously, the Command says statements obtained during the investigation linked members of the group to violent attacks in which victims were injured and nine persons were allegedly killed.
Police identified several suspects and said the State Criminal Investigation Department in Dutse had been directed to continue the investigation, recover additional motorcycles and identify other persons who may be connected to the network.
The claims attributed to the suspects remain police allegations and must still be proved through admissible evidence in court.
The case is nevertheless significant because motorcycle theft in many communities goes beyond property crime. Where organised groups allegedly use violence or killing to obtain motorcycles for resale, the possible offences may extend into robbery, homicide, receiving stolen property and organised criminal activity.
READ MORE: Cross River Police Smash Interstate Motorcycle Theft Ring, Recover Five Vehicles
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SOURCE: Punch Newspapers
