The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has rescued five kidnapped residents of Paze community in Bwari Area Council and neutralised two suspected bandits during a joint security operation in the area.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, saying he personally led the operation that resulted in the rescue of the victims and the killing of two members of the gang.
The operation followed the abduction of five residents, including a pastor, during an attack on Paze community last Thursday. A local vigilante member, identified as Shuaibu Yerima, was shot dead by the attackers during the raid.
Sanusi said the rescue mission involved operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT), the Kubwa Area Command, as well as local hunters and vigilante groups.
According to him, the joint security team launched an intensive search, clearance and rescue operation across Paze and neighbouring Byazhin communities at about 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
The police commissioner said the operation led to the arrest of two suspects, identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman, while other members of the gang fled into nearby hills.
He added that two suspected bandits were killed during an exchange of gunfire with security operatives, while two AK-47 rifles and magazines were recovered from the suspects.
The rescued victims have since been taken to a hospital for medical attention and are expected to be reunited with their families after receiving treatment.
Sanusi said security operatives have sustained search operations in the area and adjoining communities to track down fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network.
He also appealed to healthcare workers, public and private hospitals, and members of the public to promptly report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds or presenting injuries under suspicious circumstances.
