The Nigeria Police Force, through the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS), has achieved a significant breakthrough by apprehending two notorious and wanted individuals linked to a violent 'one chance' armed robbery syndicate operating in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and surrounding areas.
Suspects Arrested at Hotel
The suspects, identified as David Francis, aged 22, and Emmanuel Ibenni, also known as 'Markfish,' aged 36, were arrested on March 8th at Sambec Hotel in Mararaba, Nasarawa State. The arrest was based on actionable intelligence gathered by the police.
Modus Operandi of the Syndicate
Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspects are members of a criminal group that poses as commercial transport operators to lure unsuspecting victims. Once onboard, the victims are robbed and assaulted. The syndicate has been linked to multiple incidents involving abduction and dispossession of victims of large sums of money and valuables, including cash, mobile devices, and other personal effects.
In some cases, victims were subjected to severe physical harm, while others were found dead after encounters with the group. The police spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid, confirmed the arrests to newsmen and stated that several victims have come forward to identify the suspects, providing useful information to aid ongoing investigations.
Ongoing Investigations
Placid added that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and bring them to justice. The police urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
