By Sadiq Takwar, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing anti-crime operations with the recovery of two stolen vehicles in separate incidents across the state.
The first operation was carried out in the early hours of 17 March 2026 following a distress alert about a stolen black Toyota Prado SUV from Abuja. Acting promptly on the intelligence, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, deployed a joint team comprising operatives from ‘A’ Division Lafia, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Operation Nasara.
The vehicle was subsequently intercepted and recovered near Izallah Mosque in the Mararaba Akunza area of Lafia. However, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and escaped before they could be apprehended. Police operatives have since launched a manhunt to track them down.
In a separate operation on 16 March 2026, officers attached to the Aso Pada Division acted on credible intelligence regarding a suspected stolen vehicle in Aso B area of Karu Local Government Area.
Upon arrival at the scene near the Assemblies of God Church, the suspects fled, leaving behind a silver Pontiac Vibe. A search conducted on the vehicle led to the recovery of a Nasarawa number plate (NBB-52 TT), a Nigerian Correctional Service beret and photocopied documents believed to be linked to the vehicle.
Preliminary findings confirmed that the vehicle had earlier been reported stolen on 11 March 2025.
Commending the operatives for their swift response and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating criminal activities across the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or individuals to security agencies, assuring that all necessary measures are being deployed to ensure public safety and bring fleeing suspects to justice.
