By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Police Command has recorded another operational success with the arrest of an armed robbery and organised crime suspect, linked to the theft of a commercial tricycle (Keke Napep) after allegedly intoxicating its rider.
A statement by Dungus Abdulkareem who is the PPRO of the command said, On 23rd July, 2026, at about 10:50 pm, the Potiskum Divisional Police Headquarters received a distress report that at about 8:30 pm of the same day, an unidentified male, who posed as a passenger, allegedly administered a suspected intoxicating substance to a commercial tricycle rider, the victim, a 25 years old, while he was conveying the suspect to Dubai, Garin Dala, behind G.G.S.S.T.C., Potiskum.
As a result of the suspected substance, the rider became unconscious, enabling the suspect to flee with the tricycle, registration number 7878, to an unknown destination.
The victim was immediately evacuated to the State Specialist Hospital, Potiskum, where he was admitted and is responding to treatment.
Following swift dissemination of information and coordinated intelligence-sharing with neighbouring states, the suspect and the stolen tricycle were intercepted at a security highway checkpoint in Gaya, Kano State. Investigation has since commenced.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin commended the prompt response and effective collaboration between security formations that led to the recovery.
He has directed that the case be thoroughly investigated to identify and arrest any accomplices connected to the criminal act.
The Commissioner of Police also used the opportunity to advise commercial tricycle operators, taxi drivers and other transport service providers to remain vigilant while carrying passengers.
Operators are strongly urged not to be lured by unusually high transport fares offered by suspicious passengers and should never accept offer of drinks, food items, medications or any consumables from strangers while on duty.
They are encouraged to immediately report suspicious movements or persons to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
The Command reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging members of the public to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information to enhance public safety across the state.
