Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have foiled a kidnapping attempt in the Byazhin area of Abuja, rescuing two residents unharmed after a fierce gun battle with suspected kidnappers.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, June 5, 2026, when officers attached to 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 the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation was led by the Officer Commanding the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, who swiftly mobilised personnel to the location.
Upon arrival, the police team reportedly found the armed suspects attempting to forcefully gain entry into a residence with the intention of abducting the occupants. The suspects allegedly opened fire on sighting the operatives, triggering an exchange of gunfire.
The gun battle lasted for more than 30 minutes, during which police operatives successfully repelled the attackers and thwarted the kidnapping attempt. The suspects fled into nearby bushes, reportedly sustaining varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and seven rounds of live ammunition.
The intended victims, identified as Mr. Samson and his wife, were rescued unharmed and evacuated to safety. Police said the couple was taken to the General Hospital, Gwarinpa, where they received treatment for trauma-related distress before being placed under protective custody.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism during the operation.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the Federal Capital Territory and directed enhanced surveillance patrols in the area to prevent further criminal activities.
The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies to support ongoing anti-crime operations.
