The Zamfara State Government says about 40 cars were recovered from the residence of ex-Governor Bello Matawalle in the State.
Report had earlier claimed operatives of the Zamfara State Police Command raided the Maradun home of the former governor on Friday morning.
This is followed by claim made by Governor, Dauda Lawal, accusing Matawalle of stealing official vehicles from the Government House before handing over the state’s leadership on May 29.
But in a statement on Friday evening, Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor, Suleiman Idris, said government’s stolen property were recovered during the operation.
“The Zamfara State Government has cleared the air on the operation of the Nigeria Police Force that led to the recovery of vehicles looted by the former State Governor, Bello Mohammaed Matawalle.
“In the early hours of Friday, The Nigeria Police Force stormed the residence of the former Governor, where over 40 vehicles were impounded.
“The Police acted on a court order and a search warrant was obtained for the operation. Recall that the Zamfara State Government communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his Deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five (5) working days.
“We also lodged an official complaint with the Police on overriding public interest on wasteful looting of valuables including official vehicles.
“Consequently, the Police sought a search warrant which was duly given by the court and hence raided Matawalle’s residence in Gusau, Maradun Local Government, and another unidentified hideout.
“Over 40 vehicles were recovered including Three bulletproof vehicles and Eight SUVs.
“We want to reaffirm our commitment to recover all that belongs to the people. Our common resolve is to rescue and rebuild Zamfara. Recovering the proceeds of crime and public assets is a critical part of our rescue mission.
“We want to call on the people of Zamfara to remain calm as we continue to record massive improvements in the areas of security and the lingering water scarcity in the state.”
