Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have successfully dismantled a notorious seven-man gang specializing in armed robbery and car jacking operations across Abuja.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the command's spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, revealed that the operation was executed through a coordinated joint tactical effort led by the Scorpion Squad, following multiple armed robbery and vehicle theft incidents traced to the gang's network.

According to the police report, intelligence was received that the syndicate was planning to rob an unsuspecting victim around Maitama area on Monday, May 19, 2025. Acting swiftly on this information, police operatives intercepted the gang on May 15, 2025.

"On sighting the officers, the gang members opened fire, leading to a deadly gun duel," SP Adeh stated. During the exchange, one suspect, Abdulmininu Bello, also known as Babanle, was neutralized by the police.

Seven other suspects were arrested at the scene, including Ibrahim Muhammad, an ex-convict from Kebbi State; Abubakar Abdullahi from Plateau State; Sarajo Yusuf from Plateau State; Isiaka Adamu, an ex-convict from Bauchi State; Abdullahi Isah, an escaped detainee from Bauchi State; Sanusi Ali, a resident of Kano State; and Abubakar Sani from Plateau State.

However, the gang leader, identified as Solomon Bawa, also known as "Pastor Mogu," and one other suspect managed to escape with gunshot wounds. The FCT Police Command has urged the public to report anyone with suspicious injuries to the nearest police station.

"All suspects are currently in Police custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations," the statement confirmed.

Several items were recovered during the operation, including a 2004 Toyota Camry LE, one red boxer motorcycle, two locally made pistols with ten rounds of live 9mm ammunition, four AK47 rifles and magazines, eleven rounds of live 7.62 ammunition, and one locally made shotgun.

This successful operation represents a significant blow to criminal activities in the Federal Capital Territory, as authorities continue their efforts to enhance security across Abuja.