Suspected thief nabbed after stealing motorcycle from dispatch rider in Plateau

Troops of Sector 8, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have arrested a suspected motorcycle thief and recovered a stolen motorcycle during a stop-and-search operation in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

The suspect, identified as Hosiah Alfred, was arrested at the Sabon Gari checkpoint in Mangu at about 5:50 a.m. on August 24, 2026.

The troops, operating under Operation HARD KNOCK, intercepted Alfred while he was travelling in a commercial vehicle reportedly en route to Duklin in Bauchi State from Abuja.

According to security sources, the troops became suspicious of the motorcycle in his possession and subjected him to questioning.

During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to stealing the motorcycle from a dispatch rider identified as Yusuf Gideon, who works for one Mr. Nonso in Abuja.

The suspect and the recovered motorcycle are currently in the custody of the troops for further investigation.

Security authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft, trace the rightful owner of the motorcycle and determine whether the suspect is linked to other criminal activities.

The development highlights the continued security checks being conducted along major routes in Plateau State to detect and prevent the movement of suspected criminals and stolen property.