By our Reporter
Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have foiled a kidnapping attempt in the Byazhin area of Abuja and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and live ammunition following a gun battle with suspected kidnappers.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, June 5, 2026, when operatives attached to the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on intelligence reports indicating the presence of suspected kidnappers around the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin, near Paze Hills.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation was led by the Officer Commanding (OC), Anti-Kidnapping Unit, who swiftly mobilised a team of operatives to the location.
Upon arrival, the police team reportedly discovered that the armed suspects were attempting to forcefully gain access to a residential building with the intention of abducting its occupants.
The suspects allegedly opened fire immediately they sighted the approaching police operatives, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire that lasted for more than 30 minutes.
The Command said the operatives successfully repelled the attackers and foiled the kidnapping attempt. The suspects, believed to have sustained varying degrees of gunshot wounds during the encounter, escaped into nearby bushes.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and seven rounds of live ammunition.
The intended victims, identified as Mr. Samson and his wife, were rescued unharmed and evacuated to safety. They were later taken to the General Hospital, Gwarinpa, where they received medical attention for trauma-related distress before being placed under protective custody.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, praised their courage, professionalism, and swift response in preventing the abduction.
He reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the Federal Capital Territory and directed intensified surveillance patrols within the area to prevent further criminal activities.
The Commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts against crime and criminality.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining security and ensuring the safety of residents throughout the territory.
