Police recover and return stolen SUV after lengthy investigation
The Gombe State Police Command has returned a stolen Toyota Highlander SUV to its rightful owner, Mrs Cecilia Duru, after nearly five years. The vehicle was recovered during a routine verification exercise and handed over following a thorough investigation. Police revealed the car had been moved across several states and even left the country before being found. The command emphasized the importance of verifying vehicle documents and pledged continued efforts against vehicle theft.
What happened
- The Toyota Highlander SUV was recovered on June 8, 2026, during a joint operation at the Gombe State Internal Revenue Service Vehicle Licensing Office.
- Police confirmed the vehicle was stolen from Mrs Cecilia Duru in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on September 17, 2021.
- After being stolen, the SUV was taken to the Republic of Niger in 2023, re-entered Nigeria through Illela, Sokoto State, in October 2025, and was later brought to Gombe for re-registration.
- The car was officially handed back to Mrs Cecilia Duru on July 24, 2026.
- Investigations into the theft and movement of the vehicle are ongoing, and police urge the public to verify vehicle documents before purchase.
