Kano Police Arrest Suspected Serial Motorcycle Thief Linked to 12 Cases of Theft

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Kano State Police Command has arrested a suspected serial motorcycle thief who allegedly specialised in posing as a buyer before fleeing with motorcycles during test rides. The suspect, identified as Dahiru Junaidu, aged 45, is believed to have been involved in at least twelve separate cases of theft across the state.

How the Suspect Was Arrested

Confirming the development in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, revealed that Junaidu was apprehended following a swift intelligence-led operation by officers of the command.

According to the police, the latest incident occurred on 11th August 2025 at about 1:30 p.m. in Doraja Quarters, Kano. A resident had reported that an unknown man walked into his shop pretending to be a genuine customer interested in purchasing a motorcycle. During the test drive of a Lifan Hajoe motorcycle, the suspect allegedly absconded with the bike and failed to return.

Acting on the complaint, detectives launched an immediate investigation, which eventually led to the arrest of Junaidu in Hotoro Quarters. The stolen motorcycle was recovered in the process, preventing what could have been another successful theft.

Confession and Multiple Offences

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being responsible for multiple motorcycle thefts carried out using the same trick. The police linked him to at least twelve reported cases of similar crimes, confirming his status as a serial offender.

Investigations are ongoing to trace additional stolen motorcycles and identify other possible accomplices who may have aided him in disposing of the stolen property.

Police Caution and Public Appeal

The Commissioner of Police in Kano, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, sfipma, mnim, mnips, masis, described the suspect’s actions as criminal and unacceptable, pledging that the command would ensure he faces the full weight of the law.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant, especially when dealing with individuals seeking test drives, stressing that criminals are increasingly resorting to deceptive tactics to outsmart unsuspecting victims.

“We call on anyone who has had their motorcycle stolen in a similar manner to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation. The command remains steadfast in protecting lives and property while bringing perpetrators of crime to justice,” CP Bakori stated.

The Commissioner also encouraged residents to report suspicious activities promptly, providing the following emergency contacts: 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926.

Rising Concerns Over Motorcycle Theft in Kano

Motorcycle theft has long been a persistent challenge in Kano, given the high number of commercial and personal motorcycles in the state. For many households, motorcycles serve as a primary mode of transportation and a source of livelihood. The surge in thefts has therefore heightened insecurity, with victims often left stranded or financially devastated.

Observers believe that the swift arrest of Junaidu underscores the importance of intelligence-led policing and community cooperation in tackling crime. The recovery of the stolen motorcycle also gives hope that more stolen property may soon be retrieved as investigations progress.

With the arrest of Dahiru Junaidu, the Kano State Police Command has once again demonstrated its resolve to protect the lives and property of residents. However, the incident serves as a warning to members of the public to exercise extreme caution when dealing with strangers posing as buyers.

The police have assured that efforts are underway not only to prosecute the suspect but also to dismantle any wider network of criminal elements connected to serial motorcycle theft in the state.

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