A chef, John Govi, has been arrested by the Nigeria Police Force over his alleged involvement in a sophisticated theft operation in Abuja, where luxury items worth about ₦150 million were stolen.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) on allegations including criminal conspiracy, housebreaking, administering harmful substances, malicious damage to property, and theft.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Govi, who reportedly trained as a chef in Cotonou, Benin Republic, secured employment at the residence through connections with two accomplices identified as Peter and Moses, who are currently at large.
Findings indicate that the suspect allegedly monitored the routine and security layout of the residence before executing the operation on April 23, 2026.
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He reportedly laced food prepared within the residence with a sedative substance to incapacitate occupants and security personnel.
After the victims were rendered unconscious, Govi allegedly facilitated the entry of his accomplices, who vandalised the CCTV system, ransacked the apartment, and carted away cash along with about 20 luxury wristwatches valued at approximately ₦150 million.
The police further disclosed that the suspect was intercepted while attempting to flee through the Gwagwalada axis en route to Lagos.
Items recovered during the arrest include an iPhone 17 Pro Max belonging to one of the victims, as well as a suspected chemical substance, which has been sent for forensic analysis.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to tackling organised crime and ensuring all suspects involved are brought to justice.
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