In a decisive action against criminal activity, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, announced the elimination of eight kidnappers linked to a notorious gang that has been terrorizing Abuja and surrounding areas in Niger and Kaduna states.
The operation targeted the gang’s hideouts in the forests of Kweri in Kaduna State and Gauraka Forest in Niger State. Among those neutralized were Abdulrahman Giwa, Baba Hassan, Mohammed Dahiru, Abubakar Bature (aka Dayi), Abubakar Kadiri (aka Dare), and Kabiru Ibrahim.
Disu reported that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the FCT Police Command conducted clearance operations, arresting suspects responsible for various armed robbery and kidnapping incidents affecting communities such as Dei-dei, Bwari, and Dawaki in the FCT, as well as Daupe, Kau, and Sunape villages.
During the operation, which involved intense gunfire, the gang leader known only as Mallam was also killed. Two police operatives sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Intelligence gathered indicated that the gang had kept hostages in multiple locations, including Gidan Dogo forest in Kaduna, Gauraka forest in Niger, and Kweri forest in Kaduna.
Disu outlined the criminal activities of the neutralized kidnappers, highlighting that Abdulrahman Giwa, 25, had joined Mallam’s gang in 2022 and participated in several kidnappings, including a notable attack on Jibi village in Niger State on July 21, 2024, where ransoms were collected.
The police have reiterated their commitment to making Abuja and its environs uncomfortable for criminal elements, ensuring the safety and security of residents in the region.