In a significant victory for law enforcement, the FCT Police Command successfully thwarted an armed robbery attempt in the Mabuchi area of Abuja, the nation’s capital. The dramatic incident, which unfolded earlier this week, highlights the ongoing efforts of the police to combat crime and ensure public safety in the Federal Capital Territory.
The Command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, provided detailed information about the event in a statement released on Friday. She reported that police operatives engaged a group of four armed robbers in a fierce gunfight, resulting in the death of two suspects and the arrest of two others. The suspects have been identified as 44-year-old Joshua Godfrey, also known as Dogo, and 29-year-old Abdulsalam Mamuda, both residents of Mabushi village.
According to Adeh, the confrontation began when the police, on a routine crime prevention patrol on Monday night, encountered the armed gang attempting to hijack a black Prado Jeep from its owner near Capital Hub in Jahi, Abuja. Upon sighting the police, the robbers opened fire, initiating a tense gun battle.
The police, displaying remarkable courage and precision, overpowered the attackers. Two suspects, Joshua Godfrey and Abdulsalam Mamuda, were apprehended, while the other two were fatally wounded during the exchange. The suspects’ blue Toyota Matrix, bearing registration number BWR 626 JB, was seized at the scene.
Further investigations led to a significant breakthrough. The captured suspects guided the police to another stolen vehicle, a red Toyota Corolla with registration number RBC 743 AH, which had been illicitly taken from another unsuspecting resident. This discovery underscores the extent of the gang’s criminal activities and their impact on the community.
The police recovered a cache of items from the suspects, including firearms, cutlasses, daggers, scissors, and multiple mobile phones. These exhibits are crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation and will aid in the prosecution of the arrested individuals.
Superintendent of Police Josephine Adeh commended the swift and effective response of the police operatives, particularly the team led by the DPO Mabuchi. She emphasized that the operation, conducted around 10:45 PM on July 22, 2024, demonstrated the FCT Police Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth C. Igweh, reiterated this commitment, assuring residents of the Command’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property. He urged the public and medical facilities within the FCT to remain vigilant and report any individuals with gunshot wounds to the authorities. The Commissioner also reminded residents to utilize the police emergency lines to report any suspicious activities promptly.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by armed criminal elements and the crucial role of community vigilance in supporting law enforcement efforts. The FCT Police Command’s decisive action in this case not only prevented a potentially devastating crime but also reinforced the importance of a proactive and coordinated approach to public safety.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert and cooperate with the police by reporting any suspicious activities or individuals. The emergency contact numbers provided by the police are 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, and 07057337653, with additional contacts PCB: 09022222352 and CRU: 08107314192.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that the swift justice meted out in this case will serve as a deterrent to other would-be criminals, fostering a safer and more secure environment for all.
