By David Oladimeji
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully crushed a notorious kidnapping operation following the dislodgement of a criminal camp and the rescue of seven abducted victims in a high-risk, cross-border security raid.
The dramatic operation was triggered by a distress call received by the Police on December 5, 2025, reporting that heavily armed kidnappers had invaded a community in Ushafa, Abuja, and whisked away several residents under the cover of darkness.
Without delay, a joint security task force made up of operatives from the FCT Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS) swung into action on December 6, launching a coordinated manhunt for the abductors.
Guided by credible intelligence, the security team traced the suspects’ movements through the outskirts of Mpape community and onward into settlements linking Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
On sighting the advancing operatives, the kidnappers opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape, leading to a fierce gun battle. The security forces responded with overwhelming firepower, forcing the criminals to abandon one of the kidnapped victims during their retreat.
Displaying uncommon courage and endurance, the joint security team continued the chase for more than seven grueling hours across treacherous mountains and dense forest paths, determined to dismantle the criminal network completely.
The pursuit eventually led the operatives to the kidnappers’ main hideout deep inside Kweri Forest in Kaduna State, where another heavy exchange of gunfire took place, breaking the gang’s resistance and forcing them to flee in disarray.
A thorough sweep of the forest camp resulted in the rescue of six additional victims, bringing the total number of freed captives to seven. The victims were immediately evacuated to a hospital, where they are presently receiving medical attention and are reported to be in stable condition.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, psc, praised the bravery, discipline and professionalism of the operatives and ordered the immediate reinforcement of security along identified flashpoints to prevent further criminal incursions into the capital.
As the hunt for the fleeing kidnappers continues, the Police have called on hospitals and healthcare providers to remain alert and swiftly report anyone with suspicious gunshot wounds or injuries through the emergency lines: 08061581938 and 08032003913.
