The Lagos State Police Command has publicly urged a prominent Nigerian musician to surrender following allegations that he purchased a stolen vintage car reportedly valued at over ₦250 million.
The vehicle was reportedly stolen from overseas and later recovered among 36 cars retrieved from various local and international theft rings.
At a press briefing in Ikeja, Commissioner of Police Moshood Jimoh confirmed the seizure of the red vintage vehicle. He disclosed that police investigations uncovered links connecting the musician to the luxury import, though the celebrity’s identity has not been officially revealed .
“This vehicle was stolen from abroad and is worth more than ₦250 million. We have credible intelligence indicating that one prominent musician bought it,” Jimoh stated. He warned the celebrity to come forward voluntarily to aid investigations before the police pursue formal arrest procedures .
The commissioner advised, “So, a celebrity that knows he bought this type of vehicle in red color should, before we look for him, bring the vehicle forward,” underlining the urgency and seriousness of the matter .
The discovery of the vehicle marks a significant milestone in a wider crackdown on stolen luxury assets. The police have so far recovered a total of 36 vehicles from across Nigeria and abroad, raising concerns about a complex network involved in importing and distributing stolen cars among affluent buyers .
Police officials emphasized that once the musician steps forward, formal charges will be considered. These could include purchasing stolen property and complicity with international auto theft rings. The officer urged that transparency and voluntary compliance could impact the outcome of legal proceedings.
The lack of an official name has generated speculation and intense scrutiny across social media. While some argue that the police should identify the musician to maintain transparency, others caution against defamation without proven facts.
This case has drawn attention to the broader issue of luxury goods laundering in Nigeria. The alleged targeting of a celebrity spotlights the perceived involvement of well-known figures in illicit import schemes—and raises urgent questions about due diligence and ethical responsibility.
As investigators await the musician’s response, the story remains at a sensitive juncture. Observers are watching closely: will the individual come forward, and what implications will this have for celebrity accountability and the enforcement of anti-smuggling laws in Nigeria?
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