Police Crack Down on Motorcycle, Tricycle Theft Ring in Adamawa

Yola, Adamawa- June 26, 2025

The Adamawa State Police Command has successfully dismantled a criminal syndicate involved in the theft and illegal sale of tricycles (Keke Napep) and motorcycles in Yola.  The breakthrough followed an intelligence-led operation by the State Intelligence Department, leading to the arrest of key suspects and the recovery of two stolen tricycles and a dismantled motorcycle.  

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, disclosed that the operation was launched on Tuesday based on credible intelligence.  

One of the prime suspects, 25-year-old Mohammed Alhaji from Hulere Ward, Yola North LGA, was the first to be apprehended. During interrogation, he admitted to being part of a theft ring targeting motorcycles and tricycles in the state capital.  

Alhaji implicated another gang member, 19-year-old Jafar Babangida, also from Hulere Ward, as the one who stole two TVS tricycles from different locations in Yola. The stolen vehicles were quickly sold to buyers in Girei LGA, who then resold them to others.  

In a related case, Babangida was also linked to the theft of a Jincheng motorcycle, which he dismantled and sold in parts with the help of a 15-year-old accomplice.  All arrested suspects have confessed to their roles in the crimes, and investigations are ongoing to recover more stolen items and apprehend additional syndicate members.  

The police have assured the public of their commitment to tackling vehicle theft and urged residents to report suspicious activities.  

Aaron Isaac, Hicia News