The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully rescued five kidnapped residents and neutralized two suspected bandits during a coordinated security operation in Bwari Area Council of Abuja.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday at the command headquarters, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, disclosed that the operation was personally led by him following the abduction of five residents from Paze community in Byazhin Ward last week.
The victims were kidnapped when armed bandits stormed the community on Thursday, killing a local vigilante member, Shuaibu Yerima, and whisking away several residents, including a pastor.
According to Sanusi, the rescue mission was carried out through a joint effort involving operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Kubwa Area Command, local hunters, and vigilante groups.
He explained that security operatives launched the operation around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday after tracking the suspects to hideouts around Paze and Byazhin communities.
“The joint security team conducted an intensive search, clearance and rescue operation within the affected communities, which led to a gun battle with the kidnappers,” the police commissioner said.
Sanusi revealed that two members of the criminal gang were killed during the exchange of gunfire, while several others escaped into nearby hills.
“And during the operation, the police team also recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, while two of the gang members were arrested during the crossfire,” he stated.
The arrested suspects were identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman.
The commissioner added that security operatives recovered two AK-47 rifles and magazines from the suspects, noting that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
“We have extended our search operations to adjoining communities and surrounding hills. The command remains committed to dismantling the criminal network responsible for kidnappings and attacks in the area,” Sanusi assured.
Providing an update on the rescued victims, the police chief said they had been taken to a medical facility for treatment and assessment.
“The victims are currently receiving medical attention and will be reunited with their families after necessary medical checks and debriefing,” he said.
Sanusi further reassured residents of Paze, Byazhin and neighboring communities that security operations would continue until all remaining suspects were arrested and brought to justice.
He also appealed to healthcare providers and members of the public to support security efforts by sharing useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.
The commissioner specifically urged hospitals to promptly notify law enforcement authorities whenever individuals present gunshot wounds or injuries under suspicious circumstances.
“Such information could assist security agencies in tracking down fleeing gang members who may have sustained injuries during the gun duel,” he added.
He called on residents to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and movements within their communities.
