The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command announced the arrest of five suspected “One Chance Robbers” operating in Abuja. The apprehension followed a series of incidents where the criminals had successfully stolen over N1.2 million from their victims.
Commissioner of Police, Haruna Garba, revealed this achievement during a media briefing on Tuesday, emphasizing the commitment of the command to tackle crime in the capital. Garba disclosed that a total of 11 suspects associated with ‘One Chance Robberies’ were in custody.
Detailing a specific case, Garba narrated an incident involving victims Bright Ezekiel and Rose Augustine, who were robbed of N482,000.00 and N387,500.00, respectively. The victims had boarded a vehicle from Mogadishu Cantonment to Kubwa, only to be taken to an undisclosed location where the money was transferred from their accounts.
Upon receiving the report, swift action by police operatives from Asokoro Division, assisted by the Nigeria Army Intelligence Unit, led to the arrest of suspects Ogbonna Nwovu, Ndugo Ikechukwu, Amaechi Emezi, Felicia Udoh, and Adekunle Tayo. The operational vehicle, a blue V/Wagon taxi with registration number AA 958 RYM, was recovered. The suspects confessed to the crime and are awaiting arraignment.
In another notable operation, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit apprehended Ibraheem Idris, an okada rider, who confessed to being an informant and logistics supplier to notorious bandit leaders Jalel, Ja’e, Yakubu, and Umar. The suspects mentioned Dan Umma from Katsina state as their arms supplier, and Shehu, a security guard in Tafa LGA of Niger state, as their armourer. Recovered exhibits included a Bajaj motorcycle without a number plate and a bag containing illicit drugs.
Commissioner Garba reiterated the command’s commitment to collaborative efforts with residents and stakeholders to combat crime. He provided statistics for the month under review, highlighting the arrest of 43 suspects, recovery of three stolen vehicles, discovery of five firearms, and the neutralization of one kidnapper. The command remains resolute in its determination to ensure the safety and security of the Federal Capital Territory.