The Anambra State Police Command has recovered a Toyota Highlander allegedly stolen in the state after tracing it to Calabar, Cross River State, and arresting a suspect linked to the incident.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga announced the recovery in a statement on Thursday, saying officers attached to the Central Police Station in Onitsha carried out the operation on October 16 following intelligence about the vehicle’s location.
The recovered vehicle bears registration number ENU 387 BB and was reportedly stolen on October 9, 2026.
Suspect Arrested During Recovery Operation
Ikenga identified the arrested suspect as Muonago Chibuze, who was taken into custody in connection with the alleged theft.
According to the police, intelligence-led efforts enabled officers to locate and recover the Toyota Highlander in Calabar, several days after it was reportedly stolen in Anambra State.
The command said the operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence gathering, proactive policing and cooperation between police formations operating in different states.
Recovered Vehicle Transferred for Further Investigation
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Ama, has directed that the recovered vehicle be transferred to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu for further investigation.
Ikenga said investigators would work to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft, determine the suspect’s possible involvement and identify any other individuals who may have participated in the incident.
The police have not provided further details about the circumstances of the alleged theft or the suspect’s specific role in the case.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Recovering Stolen Property
The command said the recovery reflected its commitment to investigating reported crimes and retrieving stolen property, regardless of where the items are taken.
Ikenga added that coordination among police units and the use of credible intelligence remained important in addressing vehicle theft and other offences that cross state boundaries.
CP Ama also assured residents that the command would continue to strengthen intelligence-led policing, improve cooperation among relevant units and work with other security agencies to prevent and investigate criminal activities.
Residents Urged to Report Suspicious Activities
The police have called on members of the public to report suspicious activities and provide information about stolen vehicles or other suspected crimes.
Residents were advised to contact the nearest police station or use established police communication channels to share relevant information.
“The Command emphasises that credible information from members of the public remains a valuable component of effective crime prevention and detection,” Ikenga said.
He added that the command would pursue legitimate leads, recover stolen property and ensure that suspects undergo thorough investigations in accordance with the law.
The police also urged the public to cooperate with investigators as inquiries into the alleged theft continue.
