Operatives of the FCT Police Command have have neutralised a gang leader of a robbery syndicate, Umar Manu aka Small, in a follow-up operation following a foiled armed attack at Zone E Extension, Apo Resettlement, on June 23, 2025.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Command, SP Josephine Adeh, in a press statement, Thursday in Abuja, said: “On September 9, 2025, operatives of the FCT Police Command attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, acting on credible intelligence, launched a follow-up operation targeting a gang of suspected armed robbers and kidnappers responsible for the armed attack at Zone E Extension, Apo Resettlement, on June 23, 2025.
“Intelligence revealed that the gang had crossed from the Nasarawa forests into the FCT through Karshi forests, with plans to launch another deadly attack. Acting swiftly, the Command’s operatives traced them to a hideout at Kurape Hills, where they were planning a fresh operation.
“On sighting the police, the suspects opened fire, but the gallant officers engaged them in a fierce gun duel. The gang leader, identified as Umar Manu aka “Small,” was neutralised, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
“Recovered from the scene were one AK-49 rifle with breech number A529, one AK-47 rifle with scratched out breech number, one AK-49 rifle with scratched out breech number, three magazines, and 11 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.”
She said during the exchange, the commander of the anti-kidnapping unit and one other team member sustained minor injuries, however, both officers have since been treated and discharged from the hospital.
The PPRO said the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ajao Adewale, has commended the gallantry and professionalism of the unit, vowing to rid the FCT and its borders of all forms of violent crimes.
“In a stern warning, the CP declared that criminals who dare to test the resolve of the police will meet the same fate as the neutralised gang leader.
“He urged the public, particularly healthcare providers, hospitals, and clinics, to promptly report anyone seeking medical attention with bullet wounds or suspicious injuries to the police through the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913 or 08028940883.”
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