Police in the Federal Capital Territory arrest a Benue pastor and an accomplice for operating an interstate car theft syndicate.
The FCT Police Command has arrested Edwin Nwabueze, a Benue-based pastor, alongside Sadiq Jamiu for their alleged involvement in the theft of a Toyota Camry. The incident took place at the busy UTC Plaza located in the Garki District of the Federal Capital Territory, sending shockwaves through the local community.
According to an official statement signed by command spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh, law enforcement officers apprehended the primary suspect on October 27, 2026. Following his arrest at his residence, Nwabueze led police operatives directly to a secondary location where his alleged accomplice, Sadiq Jamiu, was also taken into custody, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Preliminary investigations conducted by the police have successfully linked the main suspect to prior arrests made by the Benue State Police Command involving similar vehicle theft cases. Authorities are now working diligently to dismantle the entire network, ensuring that justice is served while maintaining public safety across the affected regions.
Pastor Identified at Salvation Power Bible Ministry
The principal suspect, who originally hails from Oji River in Enugu State but currently resides in Benue State, formally identified himself to authorities as a pastor. He reportedly serves with the Salvation Power Bible Ministry, which is situated in the North Bank area of Benue State, raising concerns among members of his congregation and local religious bodies.
Interstate Vehicle Theft Syndicate Operations
Further findings uncovered by law enforcement indicate that the detained suspects are active members of an interstate vehicle theft syndicate. This criminal network specializes in the targeted theft and subsequent illegal sale of motor vehicles across different states throughout the country, demonstrating a high level of coordination and planning.
Ongoing Police Investigations in the FCT
Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh confirmed that ongoing investigations are actively working to establish the full operational extent of the criminal syndicate. Authorities are also making concerted efforts to track down and apprehend other syndicate members who remain at large, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice.
Public Safety Appeal and Emergency Contacts
The FCT Police Command has strongly urged members of the general public to remain highly security conscious at all times. Citizens are encouraged to promptly report any suspicious persons or illegal activities to the nearest police station, or by utilizing the official command emergency phone numbers at 08032003913 and 08061581938.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Benue pastor arrested for car theft?
The arrested suspect is Edwin Nwabueze, who claims to be a pastor with the Salvation Power Bible Ministry located in the North Bank area of Benue State.
Where did the Toyota Camry car theft take place?
The theft of the Toyota Camry occurred at the UTC Plaza situated in the Garki District of the Federal Capital Territory, according to the FCT Police Command.
What are the emergency numbers for the FCT Police Command?
Citizens can contact the FCT Police Command to report suspicious activities using the emergency phone numbers 08032003913 and 08061581938.
