The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested 14 suspected members of a notorious car theft and “one chance” robbery syndicate, recovering no fewer than 17 stolen vehicles across Abuja.
The Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists at the command headquarters. He explained that the arrests were the result of intensified intelligence-led operations carried out from March 2026 to date.
According to Sanusi, the operations involved multiple divisions, including Mabushi, Durumi, Maitama, and the Central Police Station, all targeting vehicle theft, “one chance” robberies, and related criminal activities within the FCT.
He noted that the suspects were linked to several incidents, including cars snatched at gunpoint, vehicles stolen from parking locations, and automobiles used for criminal operations.
“Through intelligence-led operations and strategic deployments, we arrested fourteen suspects and recovered seventeen vehicles,” Sanusi stated.
He added that while some of the recovered vehicles had already been returned to their rightful owners, others were still pending identification.
The police commissioner also revealed that operatives foiled a “one chance” robbery attempt on April 10 along a deserted road in Abuja. During the operation, officers intercepted a suspicious vehicle, prompting the suspects to open fire.
“Our officers responded decisively, injuring and arresting one of the suspects, while others fled into nearby bushes,” he said.
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Two female victims were rescued from the vehicle, where they had been bound. One of the victims alleged she was sexually assaulted by a member of the gang.
Sanusi further disclosed that a fleeing suspect, identified as Cornelius Abang, was later tracked and arrested. The victims reportedly identified him as one of the perpetrators involved in the attack.
“The suspects remain in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” he added.
In a related development, the police confirmed the arraignment of a content creator, Pam Joshua, for allegedly circulating a misleading video suggesting bandit attacks in Abuja.
According to the commissioner, Joshua has been charged with injurious falsehood and breach of public peace and is currently remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending trial.
Sanusi urged residents to verify security-related information through official channels, warning that spreading false information capable of causing panic is a criminal offence.
The latest arrests come amid growing concerns over the rise in car theft and “one chance” robberies in Abuja, with residents calling for strengthened security measures.
The Nigeria Police Force has, however, reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations to curb criminal activities across the FCT.
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