By Ronke Adebayo
Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have dismantled a notorious six-man kidnapping syndicate terrorising parts of Abuja and neighbouring communities, killing two members during a gun battle, arresting one suspect and recovering weapons and ammunition.
The Police disclosed that the gang was responsible for the abduction of at least 12 victims, collection of over N60 million in ransom payments, and the killing of three victims even after ransoms had been paid.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the operation was carried out on May 3, 2026, at a hideout in the Karshi area bordering the FCT and Nasarawa State following credible intelligence.
According to her, operatives launched a coordinated raid on the suspected kidnappers’ den, but came under heavy gunfire from the suspects.
“During the operation, the suspects, upon sighting the Police team, opened fire and engaged operatives in a gun duel,” she said.
“In the ensuing exchange, the gang leader, one Baba Ibrahim, also known as ‘Tsoho,’ and one Isah Shehu were neutralised, while three other gang members escaped with suspected bullet wounds. One member of the gang was arrested during the operation.”
Adeh said a search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one pistol and 17 rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigations identified other members of the syndicate as Khalid, Dan Geskiya, Mohammadu Mai Tsage and one Dogo.
The Police further revealed that the gang had been linked to several kidnapping operations in Gwagwalada, Nyanya, Jikwoyi and Karshi areas of the FCT.
“Further investigations indicate that the gang has been linked to multiple kidnapping incidents across Gwagwalada, Nyanya, Jikwoyi and Karshi areas of the FCT, with at least 12 victims abducted,” she stated.
The command also accused the syndicate of carrying out heinous crimes, including the sexual assault of a female victim and the murder of three kidnapped victims despite collecting ransom payments exceeding N60 million.
Adeh said efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing gang members, while the suspect in custody would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
She added that the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, commended operatives of the Anti-Violence Crime Unit for their professionalism, bravery and tactical precision during the operation.
The Police also appealed to hospitals and medical personnel within and around the FCT to report anyone presenting with gunshot wounds or suspicious injuries to the nearest police station.
Residents were equally urged to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information through the command’s emergency lines: 08032003193 and 08061581938.
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