Tension as Police Engage Kidnappers in Gun Duel in Abuja

There was tension in the Byazhin area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Friday as the FCT Police Command foiled a kidnap attempt after a gun duel with the suspects.

It was gathered that the Police Command had on Thursday, at about 12:34 am received intelligence reports that suspected kidnappers were around the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin.

According to a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, operatives attached to its Anti-Kidnapping Unit foiled the kidnap attempt following the intelligence report.

Adeh said the operatives swiftly mobilised to the location in a coordinated response led by the Officer Commanding (OC), Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

“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.

“Sighting the police team, the suspects opened fire, prompting a decisive response from the police team.

“A fierce gun battle ensued for over 30 minutes, during which the police operatives successfully repelled the attackers and foiled the kidnapping attempt,” she said.

Adeh said the suspects fled into the surrounding bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.

She said one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and seven rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the suspects.

According to her, the intended victim, identified as Mr Samson and his wife, were rescued unharmed and evacuated to safety.

Adeh said the suspects were subsequently taken to the General Hospital, Gwarinpa, where they received medical attention for trauma-related stress before being placed under protective custody.

She said the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the FCT, Mr Ahmed Sanusi commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives involved in the operation.

Sanusi pledged the commitment of the command to safeguarding lives and property across the FCT.

The CP ordered enhanced surveillance patrols within the area to forestall any further criminal activities.

He enjoined residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely information to aid security agencies in anti-crime operations.