Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has recorded a major operational breakthrough with the arrest of thirteen (13) members of a notorious armed robbery syndicate linked to multiple violent robbery incidents across the Territory. This was contained in a statement signed by SP. Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Police Command, Abuja.
The statement reads: “Between 10th and 12th January 2026, operatives of the Command’s Scorpion Squad, led by ACP Victor O. Godfrey conducted intelligence-driven operations in Apo-Waru and Durumi, following complaints from victims of armed robbery in Asokoro, Mabuchi, and Utako.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives traced the suspects to their hideout in Durumi, where the gang opened fire on the Police team. The operatives responded decisively and overpowered the suspects, leading to the arrest of eight (8) members of the syndicate.
“Further follow-up operations led the team to a second hideout in Apo-Waru, where another exchange of gunfire occurred, resulting in the arrest of an additional five (5) suspects.
“The suspects were positively identified through CCTV footage obtained from one of their recent robbery operations, which provided critical evidence that aided their arrest. Preliminary investigations reveal that the syndicate was responsible for a series of violent robberies in Gwagwalada, Apo, Waru, Jahi, Wuse, and other parts of the FCT.
“The suspects arrested are:
1. Yahuya Hassan (21)
2. Umar Shaibu a.k.a. Sarki (23)
3. Adahu Ibrahim (25)
4. Abubakar Sani (20)
5. Abdulazeez Usani (20)
6. Aliyu Aminu (21)
7. Aliyu Adam (18)
8. Sadisu Samilu (20)
9. Ibrahim Usman a.k.a. Yellow Mai Target (20)
10. Suleiman Yawala (21)
11. Mohammed Ali (28)
12. Sani Hamza (25)
13. Hassan Abba (19)
“Notable incidents linked to the gang include the robbery at Dan-Shade Hotel, Gwagwalada, where victims were dispossessed of cash, foreign currency, and phones, and a vigilante operative was disarmed; the robbery at Hi-Test Travel Lodge, Wuse Zone 6, during which a Police officer sustained serious injuries and a vehicle was stolen; and the robbery at Khole Home Apartment, Jahi, affecting residents, including security aides attached to the Executive Governor of Kebbi State.
“Items recovered from the suspects include: one grey Toyota Corolla (2015) with registration number ABC 200 GP, one AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated rifle, one Jericho 941 pistol, 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, seven rounds of 9mm live ammunition, assorted iPhones, one hundred US dollars in one-dollar denominations, and assorted charms.
“Investigation is ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion.
“The FCT Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and urges residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, “it also added.
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