By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of an organised crime syndicate linked to the theft of a commercial tricycle after allegedly intoxicating its rider in Potiskum.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkareem, the incident occurred on July 23, 2026.
The statement said the Potiskum Divisional Police Headquarters received a distress report at about 10:50 p.m. that a commercial tricycle rider had been robbed after an unidentified man, who posed as a passenger, allegedly administered a suspected intoxicating substance to him.
The 25-year-old rider was reportedly conveying the suspect to Dubai, Garin Dala, behind GGSS Technical College, Potiskum, when he became unconscious due to the suspected substance.
The suspect then fled with the tricycle, bearing registration number 7878, to an unknown destination.
The victim was immediately rushed to the State Specialist Hospital, Potiskum, where he was admitted for treatment and is responding positively.
Following the incident, the police swiftly circulated information and coordinated intelligence with security agencies in neighbouring states.
The suspect and the stolen tricycle were eventually intercepted at a security highway checkpoint in Gaya, Kano State.
The police said investigations have commenced and the suspect will be prosecuted upon completion of the investigation.
Commending the prompt response and collaboration among security agencies, the Commissioner of Police, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, directed that the case be thoroughly investigated to identify and arrest any accomplices connected to the crime.
The commissioner also advised commercial tricycle operators, taxi drivers and other transport service providers to remain vigilant while carrying passengers.
He cautioned operators against being enticed by unusually high transport fares offered by suspicious passengers and warned them never to accept drinks, food, medication or any consumable items from strangers while on duty.
He urged transport operators and members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
The Yobe State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and called on residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support efforts at enhancing public safety.
