The recovered vehicle... Credit: Police
The Anambra State Police Command has recovered a Toyota Highlander allegedly stolen in the state after tracing it to Calabar, Cross River State, and arresting a suspect in connection with the incident.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.
Ikenga said operatives of the Central Police Station, Onitsha, recovered the vehicle on October 16 following intelligence on its location.
He identified the arrested suspect as Muonago Chibuze.
He said preliminary information indicated that the vehicle, with registration number ENU 387 BB, was allegedly stolen on October 9, 2026.
The statement read, “The Anambra State Police Command has recorded another operational success in its sustained efforts to combat crime and recover stolen property following the recovery of a Toyota Highlander Jeep allegedly stolen in Anambra State and subsequently traced to Calabar, Cross River State, through credible intelligence.
“The recovery was made on October 16, by operatives attached to the Central Police Station, Onitsha, who acted on credible intelligence regarding the vehicle’s whereabouts. During the operation, the operatives also arrested a male suspect, identified as Muonago Chibuze, in connection with the incident.
“Preliminary information indicates that the Toyota Highlander Jeep, with registration number ENU 387 BB, was reportedly stolen on 9th October 2026.
“Following the incident, intelligence-led efforts by the Police culminated in the successful tracing and recovery of the vehicle in Calabar, Cross River State, demonstrating the importance of timely information gathering, proactive policing and effective inter-state collaboration in tackling vehicle theft and other forms of criminal activity.”
According to Ikenga, the recovery reflected the command’s resolve to investigate crimes and retrieve stolen property regardless of where it was taken.
He added that the operation highlighted the role of intelligence gathering and coordination among police formations in addressing crimes that cross state boundaries.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Ama, has directed that the recovered vehicle be transferred to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, for further investigation.
Ikenga said the investigation would establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft, determine the suspect’s possible involvement and identify other individuals who might be connected to the case.
The commissioner assured residents that the command would continue to strengthen intelligence-led policing, improve coordination among relevant police units and work with other security agencies to prevent and investigate crime.
He also urged members of the public to report suspicious activities and provide information about stolen vehicles or other criminal acts to the nearest police station or through established police communication channels.
“The Command emphasises that credible information from members of the public remains a valuable component of effective crime prevention and detection.
“The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its resolve to pursue all legitimate leads, recover stolen property and ensure that suspects are subjected to thorough investigation in accordance with the law.
“Members of the public are also urged to cooperate with the Police as the investigation progresses,” he added.
Ikenna Obianeri is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over 10 years of experience in reporting and storytelling. He conducts incisive interviews, covers crime and environmental issues, and produces engaging feature stories tailored for digital audiences. Ikenna’s work reflects strong newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a commitment to impactful, audience-focused journalism
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