From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Guto village, Bwari Area Council, following a midnight gun battle that left two suspects dead and a police officer killed in the line of duty.
Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said the incident occurred at about 1:10 a.m. on Thursday, when the Command received a distress call alerting officers to an invasion by about 30 armed men attempting to abduct a resident and his family.
A combined team from the Bwari Division Surveillance Unit and the Inspector-General of Police Special Intervention Squad (IGP-SIS) was immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon sighting the operatives, the assailants reportedly opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange that forced the gang to retreat into surrounding bushes and rocky terrain.
Two members of the criminal group were neutralised during the confrontation, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
However, the operation took a tragic turn as one police officer sustained fatal injuries during the shootout. He was rushed to the Bwari General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead. The Command described his death as a painful loss and paid tribute to his bravery and sacrifice.
FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, has since deployed additional personnel to the area to prevent further threats and restore confidence among residents. He has also ordered a comprehensive investigation aimed at tracking down the fleeing suspects and dismantling the criminal network behind the attack.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding all communities within the territory and ensuring those responsible for the attempted abduction are brought to justice.
