Bandits Killed, Five Kidnap Victims Rescued in Abuja Security Operation
At least two members of a notorious bandit gang terrorising communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been shot dead during a joint security operation that led to the rescue of five abducted residents.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists at the command headquarters, stating that he personally led the operation.
The operation followed the abduction of five residents of Paze community in Byazhin Ward of Bwari Area Council last week. The victims, including a pastor, were kidnapped when armed bandits invaded the community on Thursday. During the attack, a local vigilante member, Shuaibu Yerima, was reportedly shot dead.
According to the police commissioner, the rescue mission involved operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT), and the Kubwa Area Command, working alongside local hunters and vigilante groups.
Sanusi said the joint team launched an intensive search, clearance, and rescue operation across Paze and Byazhin communities at about 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman, while other members of the gang fled into nearby hills.
“During the operation, the police team recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines, while two members of the gang were neutralised during a crossfire,” the commissioner said.
He added that the rescued victims had been taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention and would be reunited with their families after receiving treatment.
The police commissioner noted that security operatives have continued search operations across the affected areas and adjoining communities to apprehend fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network.
Sanusi also appealed to healthcare practitioners, public and private hospitals, and members of the public to promptly report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds or presenting suspicious injuries, as efforts to track down the remaining gang members continue.
