The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested three suspected kidnappers captured in a viral video showing armed men dressed in military camouflage and openly displaying AK-47 rifles, ammunition and communication gadgets.
The suspects were apprehended following a coordinated intelligence-led operation launched by the command after the video surfaced online and sparked public concern.
Speaking with journalists, FCT Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi said he immediately ordered a comprehensive forensic investigation into the origin of the footage and directed security operatives to track down those involved.
According to him, digital forensic analysis and actionable intelligence led operatives of the FCT Police Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) Sector 5 and officers from the Zuba Division to a hideout in Runji Village, Zuba, where the suspects were arrested on May 25 at about 3:22 a.m.
Sanusi identified the suspects as Umar Babangida, 25; Adamu Yeti, 22; and Yahaya Idris, 24, all residents of Rijana in Kaduna State.
The police commissioner disclosed that investigations revealed the suspects had previously been in possession of AK-47 rifles allegedly supplied by a gang leader identified simply as “Esco,” who remains at large.
He said further examination of the suspects’ mobile phones uncovered additional videos and photographs showing them dressed in military-style camouflage while carrying AK-47 rifles and walkie-talkies.
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“The arrest followed a detailed forensic analysis of the viral content and intelligence gathering which enabled our operatives to locate and apprehend the suspects,” Sanusi said.
The police boss added that the recovery of digital evidence from the suspects’ devices has strengthened ongoing investigations into the activities of the group and its wider network.
He noted that the suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting investigators, while efforts have been intensified to arrest the fleeing gang leader and other members of the criminal syndicate.
Sanusi assured residents of the FCT that the command remains committed to dismantling kidnapping networks and other violent criminal groups operating within and around the territory.
He further stated that operations are ongoing to recover the firearms allegedly linked to the suspects and bring all those connected to the gang to justice.
