Security Agencies Get Boost as New App Tracks Stolen Property

By Julian Osamoto

Amid rising concerns over theft and widespread resale of stolen items in Nigeria, a new digital platform has been introduced to support efforts by security agencies to track and verify asset ownership.

The system, known as the Catcher app, allows users to register items using serial numbers or unique identifiers, creating a database that can be checked before second-hand purchases are made.

Briefing journalist at the launch in Abuja, Founder of Catcher Global Technology Eric Seaman, explained that the rollout comes as law-enforcement authorities continue to warn about the ease with which stolen phones, vehicles, electronics and official documents are traded in informal markets, often without any form of verification.

He said the platform enables users to check whether an item has been reported stolen. “Individuals who register their belongings can upload photographs, receipts and serial numbers, and flag items when stolen. This makes the information visible to the public and potentially useful to investigators during recovery efforts”.

He noted that, the verification process relies on unique codes commonly used for identification, including:

• Vehicle chassis/VIN numbers
• IMEI numbers for phones
• Serial numbers on electronic devices
• Document-specific serial markers

Security analysts say that while such a database cannot prevent theft, it may provide an additional layer of traceability that has long been missing in resale transactions.

“For years, second-hand markets across the country have been identified as major outlets for stolen goods. Police authorities often cite difficulties in establishing ownership, especially when recovered items lack documentation or when buyers unknowingly purchase stolen property”.

Mr Seaman highlights key challenges to include:

• Lack of centralised systems for verifying ownership
• Limited public channels for reporting stolen items
• Poor interoperability between market operators and security agencies
• Cross-border movement of stolen items without detection

The introduction of a verification platform is seen by some security observers as a step toward reducing anonymity within the resale chain.

According to him, the system’s effectiveness depends on cooperation between law-enforcement agencies, government institutions, insurance companies and resale markets.

He affirmed that discussions are ongoing on how the platform could be integrated into investigative processes or used to support existing security frameworks.

Security experts say that without institutional backing and widespread adoption, digital tools alone may have limited impact in curbing the stolen-goods market.

Also Speaking the General Manager of the organisation Jaffar Balafaru, explained that the platform is currently accessible through the developer’s website, with mobile versions expected later.

“While account creation is free, users who wish to register their personal items for tracking must pay an annual fee of N5000.

The developers stressed that the system is not intended to replace policing but could offer a public-facing tool that helps discourage the resale of stolen items.

Analysts note that technology may help reduce the circulation of stolen goods by making it easier to verify ownership, but its long-term impact will depend on:

• Public awareness and usage
• Integration into security and market processes
• Accurate reporting and consistent data entry

With theft continuing to pose a major challenge in urban centres, security professionals say tools that improve traceability could support recovery efforts, though enforcement and market regulation will remain central.