Police Bust Tricycle Theft Syndicate, Recover Eight Vehicles

The Kano State Police Command has dismantled a three-man tricycle theft syndicate and recovered eight stolen tricycles in a targeted operation across the state.

The breakthrough occurred on March 26, 2026, at approximately 5:00 p.m., when police officers from the Kwakwachi Police Division, acting on intelligence, intercepted a suspect along Airport Road in Kano.

The suspect, identified as Abubakar Sidi from Kunkumi Village in Kaduna State, was found riding a tricycle bearing registration number NSR 85 WD and Karota number KMC 1084.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on March 31, 2026, Sidi failed to give a satisfactory explanation regarding the ownership of the vehicle, prompting his transfer to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on the directive of the Commissioner of Police for further investigation.

Subsequent discreet investigations revealed that the suspect had deceived the tricycle’s owner along Emir Palace Road before conspiring with accomplices to steal the vehicle. This led to the arrest of two additional suspects, Abba Babura and Babangida Haruna.

Police further disclosed that the syndicate had stolen multiple tricycles, many of which were sold in Babura, Jigawa State. A total of seven additional stolen tricycles were recovered during the operation, bringing the total to eight.

The Kano State Police Command has urged tricycle operators and members of the public to remain vigilant, especially when dealing with unfamiliar passengers. Authorities cautioned against accepting food, drinks, or gifts from strangers, noting that criminals often use such tactics.

The command also called on individuals who may have fallen victim to similar theft methods to come forward, inspect recovered vehicles, and report to the Police Public Relations Office at Bompai Police Headquarters in Kano. A dedicated contact line has also been provided for further inquiries.

Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori commended the officers involved in the operation, reaffirming the command’s commitment to tackling crime and enhancing public safety across the state.