The Federal Capital Territory Police Command announced on Friday, 30 October 2026 that pastor Edwin Nwabueze was arrested for alleged involvement in an interstate vehicle theft syndicate. The operation, carried out at his residence in Benue State, resulted in the recovery of a stolen Toyota Camry and the detention of an accomplice, Sadiq Jamiu.
Key details emerging from the police statement include:
- The suspect, a native of Oji River in Enugu State, identifies himself as a pastor with Salvation Power Bible Ministry, based in the North Bank area of Benue State.
- Police seized the stolen Camry at UTC Plaza, Garki District, Abuja, after the pastor led officers to the vehicle.
- Preliminary inquiries have tied Nwabueze to earlier arrests by the Benue State Police Command for similar vehicle theft incidents.
- Authorities describe the duo as members of a broader interstate network that specializes in stealing and selling cars across multiple Nigerian states.
"The principal suspect voluntarily directed officers to the location of the stolen vehicle," spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh said, adding that the investigation remains ongoing to uncover the full scope of the criminal operation and to locate additional members who are still at large.
What charges are expected?
The arrested individuals are currently being held in police custody and will face formal charges once the investigative phase concludes. The police have indicated that the suspects could be prosecuted under sections of the Nigerian Criminal Code that address theft, fraud, and organized crime.
How did the investigation unfold?
According to the command, the inquiry began after the theft of the Toyota Camry was reported on 24 October 2026. Subsequent surveillance and intelligence gathering linked the vehicle to Nwabueze, prompting a raid on his Benue residence on 27 October. During the operation, the pastor disclosed the whereabouts of his accomplice, leading to Jamiu's arrest at a separate location.
What is the police urging the public to do?
The command appealed to citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity or individuals to the nearest police station or via the emergency numbers 0803 200 3913 and 0806 158 1938.
The case underscores growing concerns about organized vehicle theft rings operating across state lines in Nigeria, prompting law‑enforcement agencies to intensify collaborative efforts to dismantle such networks.