The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a chef, John Govi, for allegedly masterminding the drugging of residents and the theft of luxury items, including wristwatches valued at about N150m, from a home in Abuja.
The arrest was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, who disclosed that operatives of the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team apprehended the suspect over alleged offences bordering on criminal conspiracy, housebreaking, theft, malicious damage, and the administration of suspected harmful substances.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that Govi, said to have received culinary training in Cotonou, Benin Republic, secured employment as a chef in the residence after allegedly collaborating with two accomplices identified as Peter and Moses, who are currently on the run.
Investigators said the suspect allegedly studied the routines of the occupants as well as the security arrangement within the house before carrying out the operation on April 23, 2026.
The police explained that food prepared in the residence was allegedly laced with a substance suspected to be a sedative to render both the occupants and security personnel unconscious.
“The suspect carefully observed the movement, routine, and security structure of the residence before carrying out the operation,” the statement noted.
Police findings further indicated that after the victims lost consciousness, Govi allegedly allowed his accomplices into the apartment, where the gang reportedly vandalised the CCTV system, searched the residence, and carted away cash alongside 20 luxury wristwatches estimated at N150m.
The Force added that operatives later intercepted the suspect around the Gwagwalada area while he was allegedly attempting to escape to Lagos.
Items reportedly recovered from him during the arrest included an iPhone 17 Pro Max said to belong to one of the victims, as well as a suspected chemical substance which has been sent for forensic examination.
The police reiterated their resolve to dismantle organised criminal networks and ensure that all individuals linked to criminal activities are brought to justice.