Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have busted a six-man kidnapping syndicate operating in zparts of the Federal Capital Territory, arresting one suspect while two others were killed during a gun duel with security operatives.
The FCT Police Command disclosed this in a statement issued on late Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out on May 3, 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers hiding in the Karshi area bordering the FCT and Nasarawa State.
The police said the suspects opened fire on operatives upon sighting them, leading to a gun battle.
“In the ensuing exchange, the gang leader, one Baba Ibrahim, also known as ‘Tsoho,’ and one Isah Shehu were neutralised, while three other gang members escaped with suspected bullet wounds. One member of the gang was arrested during the operation,” the statement read.
The police added that a search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one pistol and 17 rounds of live ammunition.
According to preliminary investigations, the syndicate was linked to several kidnapping incidents in Gwagwalada, Nyanya, Jikwoyi and Karshi areas of the FCT.
The command identified other members of the gang as Khalid, Dan Geskiya, Mohammadu Mai Tsage and one Dogo.
The statement further revealed that at least 12 victims were allegedly abducted by the syndicate, which was also accused of sexually assaulting a female victim and killing three abductees despite collecting ransom payments exceeding N60m.
The police said efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing members of the gang, adding that the suspect in custody would be charged in court after investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, commended operatives of the Anti-Violence Crime Unit for what he described as professionalism and bravery during the operation.
The command also urged hospitals and medical personnel within and around the FCT to report anyone presenting gunshot wounds or suspicious injuries to the nearest police station.
Residents were advised to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies through the command’s emergency lines.
