Lagos Police Arrest Notorious Exotic Car Vandal Syndicate, Recover Exhibits
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a notorious syndicate specialising in vandalising high-end vehicles across the state.
The suspects — Obinna Okeke (27), Emmanuel Anyanwu (38) and Joshua Nkemdirim (31) — were apprehended at about 4:00 a.m. on 25 March 2026 by officers attached to a divisional unit in the Lekki area while attempting to vandalise vehicles within a residential estate.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, revealed that the group operated by disguising as security personnel, using fake uniforms and a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack fashioned to resemble a firearm to intimidate guards and gain access into estates. Once inside, they targeted parked vehicles, particularly Toyota, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz models, removing valuable components.
Items typically stolen include electronic control units (brain boxes), wiring, side mirrors, glass fittings and other high-value parts, the replacement of which can cost victims several million naira.
The suspects have confessed to the crimes and are assisting police with ongoing investigations. They also led detectives to crime scenes, where victims positively identified them. Efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
Recovered exhibits include stolen vehicle components, tools used in the operation, fake number plates and the modified car jack used to simulate a firearm.
The Command warned estate managers and private security personnel to exercise caution when granting access to individuals claiming to be security operatives. Residents are advised to verify such claims through the appropriate Divisional Police Officer (DPO) before allowing entry.
The Commissioner urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement, assuring that the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
Residents can contact the Lagos State Police Command for emergency assistance via: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, and 08039344870.
