Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Abuja, rescuing a couple unharmed after an intense gun duel with suspected kidnappers in the Byazhin area of the capital city.
The operation, carried out in the early hours of Friday, also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine and seven rounds of live ammunition abandoned by the fleeing suspects.
In a statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, the command said operatives of its Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on credible intelligence regarding the presence of suspected kidnappers around the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin, near Paze Hills.
According to Adeh, the police team, led by the Officer Commanding the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, swiftly mobilised to the scene at about 12:34 a.m.
“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 the police team,” she said.
The police spokesperson disclosed that a fierce exchange of gunfire lasting more than 30 minutes followed as operatives engaged the attackers.
“The police operatives successfully repelled the attackers and foiled the kidnapping attempt. The suspects fled into the surrounding bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds,” Adeh stated.
She added that one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine and seven rounds of live ammunition were recovered at the scene after the suspects fled.
The intended victims, identified only as Mr. Samson and his wife, were rescued unharmed and immediately evacuated from the area.
According to the police, the couple was taken to the General Hospital, Gwarinpa, where they received medical attention for trauma-related distress before being placed under protective custody.
Reacting to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, commended the operatives for their courage, professionalism and swift response.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the Federal Capital Territory and directed increased surveillance and patrols in the area to forestall further criminal activities.
The police commissioner also called on residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
“Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to aid security agencies in anti-crime operations. FCT Police Command emergency numbers: 08032003913, 07057337653,” he added.
The latest operation is part of ongoing efforts by the FCT Police Command to combat kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes across Abuja and its surrounding communities.
