The FCT Police Command has arrested 14 suspected members of a car theft and robbery syndicate, recovering 17 stolen vehicles during coordinated operations across Abuja.
Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi said the arrests followed intelligence-driven operations carried out from March, targeting criminal activities including vehicle theft and “one chance” robberies.
The operations spanned key areas such as Mabushi, Durumi, Maitama, and the Central Police Station, leading to the disruption of multiple criminal networks.
Sanusi revealed that the suspects were involved in armed vehicle snatching, theft from parking areas, and using stolen vehicles for further crimes. Some recovered vehicles have already been returned to owners, while others await identification.
He also disclosed that police foiled a “one chance” robbery on April 10 after intercepting a suspicious vehicle, which led to an exchange of gunfire.
“The officers responded decisively, injuring and arresting one of the suspects, while others fled into nearby bushes,” he said.
Two female victims were rescued from the vehicle, with one alleging sexual assault.
A suspect identified as Cornelius Abang was later tracked and arrested, with victims reportedly identifying him as a key member of the gang.
In a separate development, the police confirmed the arraignment of Pam Joshua for allegedly spreading false information about a bandit attack in Abuja. He has been remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending trial.
Residents were advised to rely on verified information, as the spread of false reports capable of causing panic remains punishable under the law.
