In a daring daylight attack, bandits abducted the family of a senior Customs officer in Abuja. The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday at the officer’s residence in Shagari Quarters, Dei-Dei.
Eyewitnesses reported that over ten armed bandits stormed the residence, forcefully entering the compound. They abducted the officer’s heavily pregnant wife, three children, and his younger brother. The officer, previously assigned to the police Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and recently transferred to Lagos, was not at home during the attack. His family had lost police protection following his reassignment, leaving them vulnerable.
Sources indicated that the bandits remained at the scene for over two hours before moving to the nearby Dakwa community. There, they attempted further attacks but were repelled by security operatives. The gunmen later released the pregnant woman but kept the children and younger brother.
Contradicting these reports, the FCT Police Command stated that the kidnapping had been foiled. However, family sources confirmed that the children and brother remained in captivity.
Police Response and Ongoing Search Operations
In response to a distress call, police operatives, led by Commissioner of Police Benneth Igweh, swiftly mobilized to the scene. SP Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, reported that police, in coordination with local hunters, ambushed the assailants at Ushafa Hill and Shishipe Hills. This led to a gunfight, forcing the bandits to flee with injuries and resulting in the rescue of the victims.
One of the rescued victims is currently receiving medical attention. Commissioner Igweh reaffirmed the police’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the area, with ongoing operations to rescue other hostages who fled during the shootout.
Community Concerns and Calls for Government Action
The attack has raised significant concerns about the security situation in the FCT, particularly in the Dei-Dei area, which has experienced several kidnappings recently. Residents are urging the government to take urgent action to address these security challenges.
Dr. Alhassan Babachukuri, the traditional ruler of Dakwa, expressed concern over the escalating activities of the bandits, noting that they have established a base behind Zuma Rock in Chachi community, Niger State. He called for immediate government intervention to prevent further attacks.
The police have assured the public that efforts are underway to apprehend the bandits and ensure the safety of all residents.
