Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command have thwarted a kidnap attempt in the Byazhin area of Kubwa, Abuja, rescuing a couple and recovering an AK-47 rifle after a fierce gun battle with suspected kidnappers.
The incident occurred at about 12:34 a.m. on Thursday around the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin, near Paze Hills, where armed men reportedly attempted to force their way into a residence with the intention of abducting its occupants.
According to the FCT Police Command, officers attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit responded to intelligence reports and launched a coordinated operation led by the unit’s Officer Commanding.
Confirming the development on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said the operatives encountered the suspects while they were trying to gain entry into the house.
“Upon arrival, the operatives discovered that the armed suspects were attempting to forcefully gain entry into a house with the intention of abducting the occupants. Upon sighting the police team, the suspects opened fire, prompting a decisive response from our men,” Adeh stated.
She said the confrontation lasted for more than 30 minutes, forcing the attackers to abandon their mission and flee into nearby bushes with suspected gunshot injuries.
Following the operation, police recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine and seven live rounds of ammunition from the scene.
The intended victims, identified as Mr. Samson and his wife, were rescued unharmed. However, they were taken to the General Hospital, Gwarinpa, for treatment related to trauma before being placed under protective custody.
Reacting to the operation, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, praised the officers involved for their courage and professionalism. He also directed that security presence and patrol activities be intensified in the area to prevent future attacks.
The command urged residents to remain security conscious and continue providing timely and credible information to law enforcement agencies.
“Residents are encouraged to continue providing timely information to aid security agencies in anti-crime operations,” Adeh added.
The police also provided emergency contact lines for residents seeking assistance: 08032003913 and 07057337653.
