What began as a viral show of force on social media has ended in police custody for three suspected kidnappers after operatives of the FCT Police Command tracked them down through forensic investigations.
The suspects were seen in a widely circulated video openly brandishing AK-47 rifles, ammunition and walkie-talkies while dressed in military camouflage, sparking public concern and prompting a swift response from security agencies.
Confirming the arrest, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Sanusi, said he immediately ordered a detailed forensic analysis of the viral video and photographs upon receiving them, alongside directives for the suspects’ immediate arrest.
According to Sanusi, digital forensic analysis and actionable intelligence led operatives of the FCT Police VCRU Sector 5 and personnel from the Zuba Division, under the leadership of the DPO, CSP Ogu Caleb Ikechukwu, to conduct a coordinated operation at Runji Village, Zuba, on May 25 at about 3:22 a.m.
During the operation, three suspects featured in the viral videos were arrested at their hideout. They were identified as Umar Babangida, 25; Adamu Yeti, 22; and Yahaya Idris, 24, all residents of Rijana, Kaduna State.
The police commissioner disclosed that investigations revealed the suspects had previously been in possession of the AK-47 rifles, which were allegedly obtained from their gang leader identified simply as “Esco,” a resident of Rijana, Kaduna State, who remains at large.
Further investigations led to the recovery of additional videos and photographs stored on the suspects’ mobile phones. The materials reportedly showed them dressed in military camouflage, carrying walkie-talkies and posing with AK-47 rifles.
The suspects are currently in police custody undergoing further investigation, while efforts continue to apprehend Esco and other members of the gang who remain on the run, as well as recover the firearms linked to the group.
