The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has foiled a kidnapping attempt in the Byazhin area of Abuja, rescuing a couple unharmed and recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and other exhibits from the scene.
The couple, identified as Samson and his wife, were rescued after operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on intelligence reports about the presence of suspected kidnappers around the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin, near Paze Hills.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation was carried out at about 12:34 a.m. on Thursday.
She said the Officer Commanding (OC) of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit led a team of operatives to the area following reports of suspicious activities.
Upon arrival, the operatives discovered that armed suspects were attempting to force their way into a residence with the intention of abducting the occupants.
Adeh said the suspects opened fire upon sighting the police team, leading to a fierce gun battle that lasted more than 30 minutes.
The operatives, however, successfully repelled the attackers and foiled the kidnapping attempt.
She added that the suspects fled into nearby bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, abandoning several items at the scene.
Recovered exhibits included an AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and seven rounds of live ammunition.
The rescued couple were subsequently 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 Sanusi, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives.
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 prevent further criminal activities and strengthen security presence.
The FCT Police Command also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to combat crime.