Police Intercept Bicycle-Riding Suspect in Port Harcourt, Recover Stolen Vehicle and Crack Open Theft Syndicate According to a statement released on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, by Superintendent Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the State Police Command, the suspect was intercepted while riding a bicycle—a tactic believed to have been used to avoid suspicion in the upscale neighborhood.
Upon conducting a search of the suspect, police officers discovered seven master keys in his possession. These keys are typically used by vehicle thieves to gain unauthorized access to multiple car models, and their discovery raised immediate red flags for the patrolling officers.
Following the arrest, the police extended their investigation to Felix Clark’s residence. There, they recovered a red Hyundai Sonata, pEKY,
Superintendent Iringe-Koko confirmed that the suspect was taken into custody and subjected to a thorough interrogation. During questioning, Clark reportedly confessed to being part of a larger car theft syndicate operating across various states, including Delta, Edo, and Lagos.
The official statement from the Rivers State Police Command read:
“On Wednesday, May 5, 2025, at 11:30 hours, operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit, led by Assistant Superintendent of officers Attah Alih, intercepted Felix Clark along Abacha Road, GRA.
Upon search, seven master keys were recovered from the suspect. Following further investigation, a stolen vehicle was recovered at his residence. Clark provided useful information that is helping us trace additional suspects involved in an interstate vehicle theft ring.”
Police Investigation Uncovers Wider Car Theft Network
Felix Clark’s confession has already led investigators to pursue leads on other syndicate members believed to be active in Lagos, Edo, and Delta States. The Police are treating this case as a breakthrough in dismantling what appears to be a well-coordinated car-snatching operation with roots in multiple regions of Nigeria.
According to insiders in the command, the gang used bicycles and inconspicuous transportation to evade suspicion while scoping out target vehicles, particularly in residential and commercial areas of Port Harcourt.
Superintendent Iringe-Koko noted that investigations are still ongoing and promised that the public would be kept updated as new developments arise. “Our officers are committed to tracing every lead and bringing the remaining members of the gang to justice,” she stated.
Reacting to the arrest, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, praised the vigilance of the officers involved and commended the quick action taken by the Anti-Cultism Unit.
“This arrest is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our officers,” said Commissioner Adepoju. “We are intensifying patrols and intelligence gathering across Rivers State to ensure public safety.”
He encouraged residents to continue supporting the Police by providing credible and timely information that can lead to the apprehension of criminals. “Community-police collaboration remains critical in our collective efforts to fight crime and protect lives and property,” he added.
The arrest has been met with relief and praise from Port Harcourt residents, particularly those living along the GRA corridor. Several community leaders have called for increased patrols and surveillance, especially at night and during early morning hours when such criminal activities tend to spike.
Security experts have also emphasized the importance of continued police visibility and proactive investigations to reduce vehicle-related crimes in the state. They lauded the Rivers State Police Command for acting swiftly and following up the arrest with broader investigations into criminal networks.
The Rivers State Command arrest of Felix Clark, the suspected car snatcher found with seven master keys, underscores the importance of routine patrols, swift investigation, and inter-agency coordination in crime prevention. With further investigations underway, the police are optimistic that more arrests will follow, leading to the dismantling of an interstate car theft ring.
Residents are urged to remain alert and report suspicious activities promptly. The Police reaffirm their commitment to securing lives and property in Rivers State and across Nigeria.
Source- Punch
