FCT Police Recover Stolen Vehicle, Arrest Armed Robbery Suspect, Seize Arms in Multiple Operations

FCT Police Intensify Crackdown on Crime with Key Recoveries and Arrests

In a series of swift operations across Abuja, the FCT Police Command has recovered a stolen vehicle, arrested a suspect linked to armed robbery and cultism, and seized dangerous weapons from fleeing criminals. These actions, spanning March 9 to 13, 2026, demonstrate the command’s commitment to enhancing security in the nation’s capital.

Stolen Toyota Corolla Traced and Recovered in Mabushi

On March 9, 2026, at approximately 10:04 AM, a resident of Galadimawa, Abuja, reported to the Mabushi Police Division that his dark grey Toyota Corolla S, registration number KAB 83 BF, had been stolen. The theft occurred earlier on April 5, 2024, while the vehicle was parked in Kaduna State by unknown persons.

Police operatives from Mabushi Division immediately launched an intelligence-led operation to trace the vehicle. Their efforts paid off the same day when they successfully located and recovered the stolen Toyota Corolla from Blessing Ohwobete (male) of Dutse Alhaji, Abuja.

The suspect and the recovered vehicle are presently in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities have stated that Ohwobete will be charged to court once the probe is concluded.

Dramatic Chase Leads to Arrest of Armed Cultist in Maitama

In a separate incident on March 13, 2026, at about 08:30 AM, operatives from Maitama Division were conducting a routine stop-and-search patrol around Diamond Junction, Wuse II, Abuja. They sighted a dark-colored Toyota Corolla approaching their barricade at high speed.

Attempts to flag down the vehicle failed as the driver sped through the barricade to evade inspection. The police pursued in their patrol vehicle, eventually blocking and stopping the car.

The driver disembarked, opened fire on the operatives, and tried to flee. The police responded with superior firepower, overpowered, and arrested the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Abiola Yakubu.

A search of Yakubu yielded a locally made pistol with one expended cartridge. Preliminary investigations reveal he is a member of a cult group and acquired the firearm from a gang member known as “Jasper.”

Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Miller G. Dantawaye psc, has directed a thorough investigation to trace the firearm’s source and arrest other cult gang members who remain at large.

Anti-One Chance Unit Intercepts Bag of Weapons in Gudu

Earlier that same day, on March 13, 2026, at approximately 01:30 AM, the FCT Police Command’s Anti-One Chance Unit was on surveillance patrol in the Gudu area of Abuja. They intercepted a motorcyclist carrying three adult male passengers.

Upon spotting the police, the suspects fled on the motorcycle, discarding a bag in the process. Operatives quickly recovered the bag and conducted a search.

Inside, they found one pistol with six rounds of live 9mm ammunition, one locally fabricated gun with three cartridges, one wire cutter, and one cutlass. Police efforts are underway to trace the firearms’ origin and apprehend the escaped suspects.

Ongoing Investigations and Commitment to Public Safety

These incidents highlight the proactive measures being taken by the FCT Police Command to combat vehicle theft, armed robbery, cultism, and illegal arms proliferation in Abuja. The recovery of the stolen vehicle from Kaduna underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations across state lines.

The high-speed chase and shootout at Diamond Junction Wuse II exemplify the risks faced by officers in maintaining order, while the Gudu interception reveals ongoing threats from opportunistic criminals using motorcycles for transport.

All suspects and exhibits are under custody, with investigations proceeding to uncover broader networks. The command’s actions aim to deter crime and reassure residents of Abuja’s safety.

SP Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Police Command, issued the statement on March 15, 2026, emphasizing the police’s resolve to rid the Federal Capital Territory of criminal elements.

Significance of Police Operations in Abuja’s Security Landscape

The FCT, as Nigeria’s administrative hub, remains a focal point for various criminal activities, including vehicle snatching, armed confrontations, and arms trafficking. The Mabushi recovery addresses a theft reported nearly two years prior, showing that no case is too old for pursuit.

Yakubu’s arrest disrupts a cult group potentially involved in broader violence, with the CP’s order for deeper probes signaling intent to dismantle such networks. Similarly, the Gudu bag recovery prevents potential ‘one-chance’ robberies or other violent crimes.

These operations involved multiple divisions—Mabushi, Maitama, and the Anti-One Chance Unit—coordinating effectively under the FCT Command’s leadership. The use of routine patrols, intelligence, and rapid response has proven crucial in these successes.

As investigations continue, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. The FCT Police Command’s recent achievements reinforce its role in safeguarding Abuja residents amid evolving security challenges.

Source: https://authorityngr.com/2026/03/15/fct-police-recovery-stolen-vehicle-arrest-one-suspect/