THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully thwarted a robbery attempt in the Zone E Extension area of Apo Resettlement, Abuja, rescuing three victims during the operation.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 10:30 pm yesterday when a distress call was received from a commercial motorcyclist, alerting authorities to heavy gunfire in the area.
In a statement issued today, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed that the Divisional Police Officer of Apo Division, CSP Uchenna Igwebuike, swiftly deployed his Ambush and Surveillance Teams to the scene.
Upon arrival, the police operatives were met with gunfire from the assailants, prompting a fierce exchange.
Reinforcement led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Isyaku Sharu, arrived shortly after, providing superior firepower that forced the attackers to retreat into nearby hills.
“Following a distress call… the DPO of Apo Division mobilised his teams to the area,” Adeh stated.
“The attackers engaged the officers in a gun battle, but with tactical reinforcement, the suspects were overpowered and fled the scene.”
During the operation, three individuals were rescued with varying degrees of injuries.
A light green Toyota Corolla, bearing registration number GWA 620 AU and belonging to one of the victims, was also recovered.
The victims were immediately taken to Sahad Hospital in Apo Resettlement for emergency medical care.
Sadly, one of the victims later died from injuries sustained during the attack.
A joint manhunt involving police operatives and local vigilantes is currently underway to track down the fleeing suspects.
FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, extended his condolences to the bereaved family and reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to public safety.
He urged residents, particularly in and around Apo, to report any suspicious individuals, especially those with unexplained gunshot wounds.
The CP also called on the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies in the fight against criminal activities in the FCT.