The Sokoto State Police Command has apprehended Austin Anthony, identified as a notorious gang leader specializing in car theft and accused of terrorizing the state.
The suspect, who had been on the command’s high-priority watch list, was intercepted by a police patrol team from the Bodinga Division along Birnin-Kebbi Road.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday at the command headquarters, the police spokesperson, ASP Ahmed Rufai, detailed how Anthony attempted to deceive officers by posing as a military personnel when caught with a stolen vehicle.
The arrest followed a report lodged by Adamu Muhammad and Kabiru Shehu, both residents of Badon Barade Area, Sokoto, about the theft of their Toyota Corolla LE and Pontiac Vibe around 4:00 a.m. on the same day.
“In the course of investigation, the suspect confessed to the crime. Two additional vehicles were recovered from him, and another suspect, Mansur Abubakar, was arrested. Austin Anthony also named five other gang members residing in different states. The investigation will be extended to their various locations with a view to arresting them,” Rufai disclosed.
The investigation also led to the recovery of several incriminating items in Anthony’s possession, including a full Nigerian Army uniform with the rank of Major, fabricated master keys, bunches of car keys, and other military paraphernalia such as an ID card, vehicle number plates, banners, stamps, and shoulder badges.
The police spokespsrson added, “Prior to this, the said suspect Austin Anthony was arrested by policemen attached to CID in possession of three stolen vehicles and was arraigned in court on 28/8/2024 for the same offence. The suspect, who is an unrepentant criminal, is presently on court bail. As soon as the investigation is completed, suspects will be charged to court for prosecution.”
The Sokoto Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, reiterated the command’s determination to track down the remaining suspects and dismantle criminal gangs.
He assured residents of the police’s relentless commitment to combating crime and safeguarding the community.
Musa urged the people of Sokoto to stay vigilant and law-abiding, emphasizing, “The command will maintain its aggressive stance against criminals and also ensure the safety and security of the good people of the state.”
He commended the public for their support and encouraging continued collaboration in preserving peace and order.
