In a statement released on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the arrest of one suspect, 35-year-old Chinedu Onwuka. The arrest was made by officers from the Ozalla Police Division in collaboration with Neighbourhood Watch personnel.
The suspect and his gang had reportedly hired a mini truck driver under the pretense of transporting sand from the Ogbete area to Umuatuaboma in Nkanu West Local Government Area. However, during the trip, the suspects diverted the truck into the bush along the Umuatuaboma–Obuofia Road at gunpoint.
They tied the driver to a tree and fled with the truck, a Daihatsu Hijet popularly known as “Diana.” A swift response from the police led to the rescue of the driver and recovery of the stolen vehicle.
During interrogation, Onwuka confessed to the crime and also admitted taking part in a similar operation last month. He revealed he was paid ₦90,000 from the sale of another stolen mini truck.
The police say efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing gang members.
Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has vowed to continue cracking down on criminals and warned truck drivers to be cautious when accepting transportation jobs.
“Know who you are working with and where you are going. Don’t take risks that could cost you your life or your vehicle,” CP Giwa advised.
