The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), through the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), has arrested a man identified as John Cosmos Govi over his alleged involvement in a criminal operation that resulted in the theft of luxury items and valuables worth about ₦150 million from a residence in Abuja.
This contained in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, on Monday. Saying the suspect is facing allegations bordering on criminal conspiracy, housebreaking, administering suspected harmful substances, malicious damage to property, and theft.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Govi, who reportedly received culinary training at a catering school in Cotonou, Benin Republic, secured employment as a chef at the residence after establishing contact with two accomplices identified as Peter and Moses, who remain at large.
Police findings indicate that the suspect allegedly studied the routine, movements, and security arrangements within the residence before carrying out the operation on April 23, 2026.
Investigators further disclosed that food prepared in the residence was allegedly laced with a suspected sedative substance aimed at incapacitating both occupants and security personnel. After the substance reportedly took effect, the suspect allegedly facilitated the entry of his accomplices into the premises.
The gang is accused of vandalising the property’s CCTV monitoring system, ransacking the residence, and stealing cash as well as 20 luxury wristwatches valued at approximately ₦150 million.
The FID-IRT operatives later intercepted the suspects while they were allegedly attempting to escape through the Gwagwalada axis on their way to Lagos.
During the operation, police recovered an iPhone 17 Pro Max belonging to the victim and a suspected chemical substance, which has been forwarded for forensic examination.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to combating criminal activities across the country and ensuring that all individuals involved in organised crimes are brought to justice.
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