The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a chef, identified as John Cosmos Govi, for allegedly masterminding the drugging of residents and theft of luxury items worth about ₦150 million from a residence in Abuja.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) following investigations into the incident which occurred on April 23, 2026.

Police investigations revealed that Govi, who reportedly trained at a catering school in Cotonou, Benin Republic, secured employment as a chef in the residence after allegedly collaborating with two accomplices identified simply as Peter and Moses, who are currently on the run.

The police said the suspect carefully monitored the routines, movement patterns, and security arrangements within the residence before carrying out the operation.

Investigators further disclosed that food prepared in the house was allegedly laced with a suspected sedative substance aimed at incapacitating both the occupants and security personnel. After the substance reportedly took effect, the suspect allegedly allowed his accomplices into the residence.

The gang was said to have vandalised the CCTV monitoring system, ransacked the apartment, and carted away cash and about 20 luxury wristwatches valued at approximately ₦150 million.

Police operatives later intercepted the suspects along the Gwagwalada axis while they were reportedly attempting to flee towards Lagos.

During the operation, an iPhone 17 Pro Max belonging to the victim was recovered, alongside a suspected chemical substance which has been forwarded for forensic analysis.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to tackling organised crime and ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice.