FCT police arrest acclaimed pastor allegedly involved in interstate car theft, recover stolen vehicle

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested an acclaimed pastor, Edwin Nwabueze over alleged involvement in interstate car theft.

The spokesperson for the command, SP Josephine Adeh, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, October 30, 2026 said Nwabueze and one Sadiq Jamiu were arrested in connection with the theft of a Toyota Camry at UTC Plaza, Garki District of the FCT.

According to the PPRO, preliminary investigations have also linked the suspect to previous arrests in connection with vehicle theft cases in Benue State. 

Adeh said further investigation indicate that are members of an interstate vehicle theft syndicate. 

“The principal suspect, who hails from Oji River, Enugu, but resides in Benue State, identified himself as a Pastor with Salvation Power Bible Ministry, located in North Bank area of Benue State,” the statement read.

"Following sustained and expanded investigations, the suspect was arrested at his residence on the 27th of October 2026. 

"He led police operatives to another location where his accomplice, one Sadiq Jamiu was also arrested.

"Preliminary investigations have also linked the suspect to previous arrests by the Benue State Police Command in connection with vehicle theft cases.

"Further findings indicate that the suspects are members of an interstate vehicle theft syndicate specialising in the theft and sale of vehicles across different states of the country. 

"Investigations are ongoing to establish the full extent of the syndicate’s operations and apprehend other members who are currently at large. 

"The arrested suspects are in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

“The Command urges members of the public to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 08032003913, 08061581938.”