In a rare demonstration of committed leadership by example, the Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mohammed Sanusi, on Tuesday led his officers in an operation that resulted in the rescue of five kidnapped victims in Byazhin.
The successful operation, according to the command's Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, was based on credible intelligence gathering and also led to the arrest of Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman, while other gang members fled into nearby hills with varying degrees of bullet wounds.
Intelligence-Led Operation
Josephine Adeh stated that recent kidnapping incidents within the Paze community in the Byazhin area triggered intense intelligence work, prompting the physical participation of a clearance operation by the commissioner of police. The team comprised operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the NPF Intelligence Response Team (IRT), and Kubwa Area Command, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups.
“On 9th June 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m., the joint security team launched an intensive search, clearance, and rescue operation across Paze and Byazhin communities. During the operation, the team engaged suspected kidnappers in a gun duel, resulting in the neutralization of two suspects and the arrest of two others identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman, while other gang members fled into nearby hills with varying degrees of bullet wounds,” Adeh explained.
Weapons Recovered
During the operation, the police team also recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines. The command therefore calls on healthcare practitioners, private and public hospitals, and members of the public to promptly report any individual presenting gunshot-related injuries or seeking treatment under suspicious circumstances.
“The sustained pressure mounted on the criminal elements forced them to abandon five hostages, who were promptly rescued unharmed. The rescued victims have since been taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention, while efforts are ongoing to reunite them with their families. Meanwhile, search operations continue across the general area and adjoining communities aimed at apprehending the fleeing suspects and dismantling the criminal network,” Adeh added.
Commendation and Call to Action
The Commissioner of Police commended the bravery, resilience, and professionalism displayed by the operatives and supporting local security volunteers during the operation. He reaffirmed the command's resolve to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the Federal Capital Territory.
Members of the public are encouraged to remain security conscious and report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the command's emergency numbers: 08032003913, 07057337653.
