In a swift response to a distress call, troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully prevented a violent armed robbery attack on the busy Kaduna-Abuja highway. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, saw security forces engage criminals, leading to the arrest of one suspect and the restoration of calm in the area.
Operation Details: Swift Response Thwarts Attack
According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Shuaibu Umar, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 1 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the event unfolded when troops on a routine patrol received an urgent alert. The distress call indicated that an armed robbery was in progress at Nasarawan Doka, a location along the critical transport corridor.
The soldiers immediately mobilised to the scene and confronted the criminals. A fierce engagement ensued, during which the troops effectively neutralised the immediate threat to commuters. One of the armed robbers was shot dead during the exchange of fire, while other members of the gang fled into the surrounding area.
Suspect in Custody, Area Secured
During the operation, one suspect, identified as Kabiru Zayyanu, was apprehended. He sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was promptly evacuated to Doka General Hospital for urgent first aid treatment. Following the initial encounter, troops conducted a hot pursuit of the fleeing suspects, although no further contact was made.
Importantly, no commuters were killed, injured, or abducted during the entire operation, a testament to the troops' timely intervention. The Army confirmed that the general security situation in the area is now calm, with forces maintaining a strong, dominant presence to ensure the safety of all road users.
Investigation and Ongoing Commitment
The arrested suspect, Kabiru Zayyanu, is currently in custody and will be handed over to the relevant security agency for further investigation and prosecution once the military's preliminary processes are complete.
The Nigerian Army, through Lieutenant Colonel Umar, has reiterated its continued commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians. The statement also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activities or movements to the nearest security agency, emphasising that such collaboration is vital for maintaining security on the nation's highways.
