The Bauchi State Police Command has made a significant arrest in its ongoing campaign against property crime, recovering a stolen 2022 Toyota Hilux and apprehending two suspects linked to the theft. The vehicle, reportedly stolen on July 17, 2026, from Oasis Bakery in Bukuru, Jos, Plateau State, was recovered after a coordinated operation by detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). The suspects were arrested at Larema Hotel on GRA Dass Road, Bauchi, on Saturday, following intelligence gathered from Jos.
According to SP Nafiu Habib, Police Public Relations Officer, the Hilux had been parked at the bakery by its owner, a 48-year-old man from Kwata Zawan. Police allege the theft was carried out deceitfully, with the involvement of alleged military personnel. The operation was launched after SCID received credible intelligence about the vehicle’s movement and location in Bauchi.
The two suspects identified are Ibrahim Tijjani, 31, of Federal Low Cost, Jos, and Umar Muhammad, 33, of Unguwar Rogo, Jos. Ibrahim Tijjani is described as a dismissed Lieutenant of the Nigerian Army, who was disengaged in 2021. During interrogation, he confessed to stealing the Hilux and admitted to previously stealing two other vehicles in Bauchi, which he later disposed of in another state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, commended the SCID detectives for their professionalism and swift action. He noted that the recovery of the Hilux brings the total number of vehicles recovered by the command to about six within the first two weeks of July 2026. This success, he said, underscores the command’s commitment to tackling property-related crimes across the state.
CP Aliyu urged the public to remain vigilant and actively cooperate with security agencies. “See something, say something, so the Police can do something,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of community involvement in crime prevention. The recovered Toyota Hilux has been returned to its rightful owner, and investigations into the case are ongoing.
The suspects are expected to be charged in court once the investigation is concluded. This case reflects the growing collaboration between security agencies across states and the increasing focus on recovering stolen property. As Bauchi State continues to strengthen its security measures, residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to help maintain peace and safety.
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