Ex-Convict Re-Arrested for Motorcycle Theft Just Six Days After Release

The Delta State Police Command has apprehended five suspects in connection with a fresh wave of motorcycle thefts in the state, including an ex-convict who had just completed a two-year prison sentence for a similar offence.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe on Tuesday, the suspects were arrested by operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad. One of the suspects, identified as Precious, was released from the Ogwashi-Ukwu Correctional Centre just six days before his re-arrest. Edafe described Precious as “an expert in stealing motorcycles.”

In his confession, Precious stated that upon his release, a man identified as Mohammed was already waiting for him at the prison gate. According to him, Mohammed accused him of causing the loss of a previously stolen motorcycle which the police had recovered. Mohammed allegedly tied him up and forced him to go and steal another motorcycle to replace the recovered one.

Precious said he spotted a parked motorcycle, managed to disconnect and start it, but was caught by a security guard while attempting to flee after his slippers fell off. He reportedly told the security guard that he had stolen the motorcycle and was taking it to Mohammed.

A generator, both large and small, was also recovered from Mohammed, whom Precious claims pushed him back into a life of crime.

The suspect further named other accomplices known as “Yellow” and “Black,” and others who are currently at large.

SP Edafe noted that the police have identified a troubling trend of coordinated thefts in the state, involving not just burglars but also professional receivers who buy stolen goods and resell them at reduced prices.

The investigation is ongoing, and the Delta State Police Command has vowed to intensify efforts in curbing the rising rate of property crimes in the region.