Security forces in Abuja have dismantled a kidnapping ring allegedly responsible for terrorising communities around Ushafa, resulting in the rescue of seven victims after a heated exchange of gunfire.
A statement issued by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the coordinated operation that led officers deep into the border areas between the capital city and Kaduna State.
The crackdown, launched at dawn, followed growing concerns over rising abductions in rural settlements.
SP Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the Command, explained that the operation was triggered after authorities received a frantic alert from residents reporting an armed invasion on December 5, 2025.
“Once intelligence confirmed the movement of the suspects, security agencies immediately swung into action,” Adeh said, describing the mission as “a decisive move aimed at preventing yet another tragedy.”
Moreover, the breakthrough came through collaboration between the FCT Anti-Kidnapping Unit, personnel of the Nigerian Army, and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The joint team embarked on an early-morning search across rough terrains stretching from the outskirts of Mpape towards Kagarko Local Government Area in Kaduna.
According to the statement, the gang opened fire after spotting the advancing security squad, igniting a prolonged shootout in the bushy enclave used as their shelter.
One senior operative, who participated in the mission and requested anonymity, said the kidnappers were overwhelmed by the agency’s tactical response.
“Once our men advanced, the criminals realised they were outmatched. They abandoned their captives and fled in disarray,” the officer said.
Seven victims, including women, were rescued with one reportedly receiving immediate medical attention after being found weak and traumatised. However, no operatives sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Authorities hinted that manhunts are ongoing to track down the escapees and dismantle associated cells believed to be aiding ransom operations across state borders.
Adeh reaffirmed the Command’s confidence in ending the criminal network, stating that residents should be reassured that security agencies are “far from relenting.”
Communities across Abuja have been urged to maintain vigilance and report suspicious activities as search operations extend deeper into neighbouring terrain.
The rescue underscores increasing pressure from security agencies to curb abductions that continue to threaten livelihoods in rural areas surrounding the capital.
Nigeria’s fight against kidnapping remains complex, yet each successful rescue nudges the narrative toward hope, pushing criminal networks into shrinking corners.