The Nigeria Police Force has successfully dismantled a cartel dealing in jewelry worth billions of Naira, acquired through armed robbery operations in Abuja and its surrounding areas.
On April 28, 2024, a brazen armed robbery occurred at the residence of a police officer in the Lugbe area of the Federal Capital Territory. The assailants nearly smothered the officer and stole a secured safe containing jewelry, money, academic certificates, documents, phones, and other valuables belonging to various residents of the compound. CCTV footage captured the suspects, aiding ongoing forensic investigations.
Further investigations traced the stolen items to Wuse Market, where they were allegedly purchased by one Alhaji Auwal. Despite police warnings to the FCT Gold Dealers Association against buying stolen gold, Auwal facilitated the purchase and instructed his associates on how to handle it.
The Force Intelligence Department revealed that Auwal, his sons, and other associates are part of a larger cartel involved in dealing stolen jewelry. The cartel has been linked to previous similar cases under investigation. Twenty-six suspects have been arrested and are being held legally under a court order, with more detentions likely as the investigation progresses.
The police also addressed and debunked claims made by Sahara Reporters alleging the robbery occurred at the residence of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The force clarified that no such incident took place at the IGP’s residence or any official police facilities. The report was labeled as false and possibly driven by mischief or misinformation from suspects currently at large or in lawful detention.
The Nigeria Police Force emphasized its commitment to justice and upholding the rule of law, urging the public to disregard the misleading information.
