By Prosper Mene
Kano State Police Command has recovered a stolen Toyota Hilux van and arrested a female suspect attempting to smuggle it across the border to Niger Republic, authorities announced today.
The dramatic bust unfolded on October 6 along Airport Road in Nassarawa Local Government Area. Operatives from the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) intercepted 35-year-old Adama Hassan from Deba LGA in Gombe State. She was caught red-handed trying to conceal the white Hilux, which had been stolen earlier from an undisclosed location in northern Nigeria.
The vehicle’s intended route: straight out of the country for black-market sale.”We acted on credible tips and technical leads to track the vehicle,” said Police Public Relations Officer SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa in a statement. “Hassan’s arrest prevents a major loss and disrupts a potential smuggling network.”During interrogation, Hassan confessed to receiving the Hilux from a male accomplice in Lafiyan Lamurde LGA, Adamawa State, who remains on the run. Police say the duo planned to fence the vehicle abroad, part of a rising trend in cross-border vehicle thefts plaguing the region. “Efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover other stolen assets linked to this ring,” Kiyawa added.
The Hilux, valued at over โฆ20 million (about $12,000 USD), is now in police custody at Bompai Headquarters. Its owner is urged to come forward with proof of ownership to reclaim it. Hassan faces charges of vehicle theft, smuggling, and conspiracy, with court appearance pending investigation wrap-up.
This recovery shows Kano Police’s aggressive push against auto crime, which has spiked 15% in northern states this year amid economic pressures.
Commissioner of Police CP Salman Dogo Garba praised the SIS team: “Our borders are no longer free game for thieves. Community vigilance made this possible.
