Nigeria Police Arrest Abuja Chef for Drugging Residents and Stealing N150m in Watches

TL;DR: Nigeria Police arrested Abuja-based chef John Govi for drugging residents and stealing cash and twenty luxury watches worth about N150 million. He allegedly used food laced with a sedative to incapacitate occupants before accomplices looted the residence on 23 April 2026.

Context: Govi trained as a chef in Cotonou, Benin Republic, before moving to Nigeria. He secured a position as a cook at the Abuja residence after being introduced to two men, Peter and Moses, who are still at large. Police say the trio planned the theft for several weeks.

During that period, Govi reportedly studied the household’s daily routine, entry points, and security camera placements. He used this information to time the administration of a sedative-laced meal. The Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team monitored his movements and arrested him near Gwagwalada as he attempted to travel to Lagos.

Key Facts: After the sedative took effect, Govi opened the door for Peter and Moses, who disabled the CCTV system and began searching the premises. The gang collected cash from safes and drawers and seized twenty luxury wristwatches. Investigators estimate the total value of the stolen items at approximately N150 million.

When officers apprehended Govi, they found an iPhone 17 Pro Max that belonged to the victim tucked in his bag. A powdery substance, suspected to be the sedative used in the food, was also recovered and sealed for forensic testing. Both items have been sent to the police crime laboratory for analysis.

What It Means: The incident underscores how trusted employees can exploit their access to facilitate organized crime. Police officials have indicated they will review hiring and supervision protocols for domestic workers in high‑value residences. Investigators are continuing to trace the network that supplied the sedative and the buyers for the watches.

Authorities have issued alerts for Peter and Moses and are coordinating with neighboring states to track any attempts to sell the stolen goods. The forensic report on the chemical substance could reveal its potency and help link it to similar cases. What to watch next: the outcome of the forensic analysis and any arrests connected to the remaining suspects.