Abuja: Police, military, neutralize armed robbery gang in midnight operation

In a coordinated midnight operation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police, alongside the military and local vigilante groups, neutralized three notorious armed robbers in Filin-Dabo village, recovering weapons and other incriminating items.

The operation commenced following a distress call received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Dei-Dei ‘A’ Division at 11:50 PM on February 12, 2025, reporting an ongoing violent robbery in Filin-Dabo village.

Responding immediately, the DPO alerted the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, which then coordinated with operatives from the 102 Battalion, Guards Brigade, the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local vigilante groups to mobilize to the scene.

Upon arrival, the joint security team encountered a six-member gang attempting to flee into nearby bushes. The criminals launched an ambush on the operatives, but security personnel responded with superior firepower, leading to a fierce gun battle.

Despite attempts to escape, the robbers were overpowered. The wounded suspects were rushed to Kubwa General Hospital, where three of them were confirmed dead by medical personnel, while the other three, who sustained various degrees of bullet wounds, are currently receiving medical attention.

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Security operatives recovered an arsenal of weapons and incriminating items from the criminals, including: One (1) AK-47 rifle (breech number defaced); Three (3) magazines; Nineteen (19) live rounds of 7.62mm ammunition; Two (2) locally made pistols; Two (2) knives; One (1) taser; One (1) mobile phone; Assorted charms (suspected to be used for fortification); Dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.

The Commissioner of Police commended the joint forces for their swift and decisive response, stressing that this operation sends a strong warning to criminals that crime will not be tolerated in the FCT.

He also praised the residents of Filin-Dabo village for their cooperation and timely intelligence, which played a crucial role in the success of the operation.

Additionally, he urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, reiterating that security is a collective responsibility.