ABUJA — Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt in the Byazhin area of Kubwa, Abuja, rescuing a couple unharmed after a fierce exchange of gunfire with suspected kidnappers.

The Operation

According to a statement released on Friday, June 5, 2026, by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation was launched in the early hours of Thursday, June 4. Acting on credible intelligence regarding the presence of armed suspects near the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin, close to Paze Hills, officers attached to the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit mobilized to the scene.

Upon arrival at approximately 12:34 a.m., the police team, led by the Officer Commanding the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, intercepted the suspects as they were attempting to forcibly breach a private residence with the intent to abduct the occupants.

The Confrontation and Rescue

The suspects opened fire upon sighting the police, triggering a violent gun battle that lasted more than 30 minutes. The police operatives utilized superior firepower to repel the attackers, forcing them to retreat into the nearby bushes, reportedly suffering from gunshot wounds sustained during the skirmish.

The intended victims, identified as Mr. Samson and his wife, were successfully rescued without injury. They were evacuated to the General Hospital, Gwarinpa, where they received medical attention for trauma and were subsequently placed under protective custody.

Evidence Recovered

Following the retreat of the kidnappers, police searched the area and recovered the following items:

      •  One AK-47 rifle

      •  One AK-47 magazine

      •  Seven rounds of live ammunition

The Commissioner of Police for the FCT, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, has commended the operatives for their professionalism and bravery. He has ordered increased surveillance and intensified patrols across the Byazhin axis to prevent further criminal activity and restore peace to the community. Authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to security agencies immediately.