Niger State Police Arrest Salesgirl for Stealing N29 Million Worth of Mobile Phones and Cash

Strategic Insights -

Police in Niger State have arrested a 23-year-old salesgirl, Sarah Ogbonna, for allegedly stealing mobile phones and cash worth N29 million from her employer's shop at Obasanjo Commercial Complex, Minna. According to the state police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, Sarah used some of the stolen money to rent and furnish an apartment for her boyfriend, and also transferred additional money to him. The suspect's confession led to the arrest of her elder sister, Mercy Ogbonna, and three other individuals, including Ruth Omor Emmanuel and Nurudeen Musa, who are accused of receiving and selling the stolen goods.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sarah Ogbonna, a 23-year-old salesgirl, was arrested for allegedly stealing mobile phones and cash worth N29 million from her employer's shop.
  • She used some of the stolen money to rent and furnish an apartment for her boyfriend, Samuel Abiodun Bello, who is now at large.
  • Sarah also participated in a weekly financial contribution of N150,000 with an unidentified online group.
  • Her sister, Mercy Ogbonna, was arrested for receiving multiple transfers from Sarah.
  • Two other individuals, Ruth Omor Emmanuel and Nurudeen Musa, were arrested for taking part in the stealing and receiving the stolen goods.
  • Items worth N29 million were recovered from Sarah's residence, including power generators, a smart TV, a freezer, and house furniture.
  • Sarah has been working in the shop since 2023 and allegedly stole items and phones over a period of time.

Statistics:

  • N29 million worth of mobile phones and cash was stolen from the shop.
  • Sarah transferred N150,000 per week to an unidentified online group.
  • Additional money was transferred to her boyfriend, Samuel Abiodun Bello.
  • Sarah's sister, Mercy Ogbonna, received multiple transfers from her totaling an unknown amount.
  • Ruth Omor Emmanuel and Nurudeen Musa sold stolen goods at low prices.
  • Items worth N29 million were recovered from Sarah's residence.

Sources:

  • Niger State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun
  • Obasanjo Commercial Complex phone dealer (shop owner)
  • Niger State Police Division (names and dates as provided in the original text)

Note: The original text does not include any specific dates for the events mentioned beyond the arrests on August 8, 2025, and August 9, 2025.