Two bandits linked to a violent gang terrorizing the Federal Capital Territory have been killed in a police operation that also led to the rescue of five kidnapped residents, according to FCT Police Commissioner Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi. The operation, launched on Tuesday evening at around 9:00 p.m., targeted a criminal gang responsible for the abduction of five people from the Paze community in Byazhin Ward, Bwari Area Council. Sanusi, who led the joint security team, confirmed the successful rescue during a press briefing held at the command headquarters on Wednesday.
The incident began on Thursday when bandits invaded the Paze community, kidnapping five residents, including a pastor. During the attack, a local vigilante member, Shuaibu Yerima, was fatally shot. The police, in coordination with the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Kubwa Area Command, and local hunters and vigilante groups, launched an intensive search and rescue mission. The operation spanned across Paze and Byazhin communities and resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with magazines, underscoring the armed nature of the criminal group.
During the operation, two suspects—identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman—were arrested. Other members of the gang fled into nearby hills, evading capture. Sanusi emphasized that the rescue mission was conducted under challenging circumstances, with the police team engaging in crossfire that led to the deaths of two bandits. The five rescued victims were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Authorities are now working to reunite them with their families and ensure their full recovery.
The FCT Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the capital. Sanusi urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies. The operation highlights the increasing collaboration between police, intelligence units, and local security groups in combating kidnapping and armed banditry in the region. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects and dismantle the criminal network. This development comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Abuja, particularly in rural and peri-urban communities.
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