Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have foiled a planned kidnapping and armed attack by suspected bandits in Byazhin Forest, a suburb of Abuja. The operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds of live ammunition, the Command confirmed on Tuesday.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation was part of intensified efforts to curb the recent resurgence of banditry and kidnapping in border communities within the FCT — particularly Bwari, Kuje, and Gwagwalada Area Councils.
Police Act on Intelligence to Avert Major Attack
The raid, which took place on the night of October 10, was initiated after credible intelligence from the Force Headquarters Technical Intelligence Unit revealed that a notorious bandit leader, identified as Idrisa, also known as “Mai Duna”, had concluded plans to launch simultaneous attacks on several villages around the Byazhin forest axis.
“Acting swiftly on the intelligence report, on October 10, 2025, at about 9:00 p.m., the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit deployed tactical teams to mount an ambush along the suspected routes of the criminals,”
— SP Josephine Adeh, FCT Police PRO
At approximately 1:00 a.m. on October 11, the operatives intercepted two groups of armed bandits advancing toward the area, resulting in a fierce 20-minute gun duel.
The police stated that the attackers were overpowered and forced to retreat into the forest with gunshot wounds.
Weapons Recovered, Medical Alert Issued
Following the encounter, additional reinforcements were dispatched from nearby Police and Military formations to secure the area and block escape routes. A subsequent search led to the recovery of:
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One AK-47 rifle (with a defaced serial number)
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One magazine
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Thirty (30) rounds of live 7.6mm ammunition
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, commended the operatives for their gallantry and professionalism, emphasizing that their quick response prevented a major security breach within the capital territory.
He further directed medical facilities across the FCT and adjoining states to immediately report any person with gunshot wounds to the nearest police station.
Joint Security Operations Ongoing Across FCT
The FCT, which hosts Nigeria’s seat of power, has recently faced rising security threats linked to armed bandits operating from forested areas bordering the Abuja–Niger State corridor.
To address these challenges, the FCT Police Command has intensified joint operations with military units and local vigilante groups to dismantle criminal enclaves and strengthen security surveillance.
Security analysts note that the success of the Byazhin operation is likely to boost public confidence and reassure residents—especially in rural communities—of the police’s renewed commitment to public safety.