A chef in Abuja has been arrested by the Nigeria Police Force over allegations that he drugged his employer and security personnel before stealing luxury wristwatches valued at about ₦150 million from a private residence.
Police spokesperson confirmed that the suspect, identified as John Cosmos Govi, was arrested by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team following a detailed investigation into the incident.
According to investigators, the suspect allegedly secured employment as a chef in the residence and, after observing the household’s routines and security arrangements, planned the operation with two accomplices who are still at large.
Authorities said the chef is believed to have laced food prepared in the house with a sedative substance, rendering occupants and security personnel unconscious. This allegedly allowed the gang to gain unrestricted access to the property.
Once inside, the suspects reportedly disabled CCTV monitoring systems before ransacking the residence and making away with cash and about 20 luxury wristwatches.
Police further disclosed that the stolen items are valued at approximately ₦150 million. The suspect was later intercepted while allegedly attempting to flee the area.
Items recovered from him include a mobile phone belonging to the victim and a suspected chemical substance now undergoing forensic analysis.
The police said efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining accomplices and recover the stolen valuables.
A senior police official stated that the Force remains committed to dismantling organised criminal networks and ensuring all suspects face prosecution.
Investigations into the case are still in progress.
