In Abuja, Police recover stolen SUV after gun battle with robbers

A black Toyota SUV that was taken by armed robbers has been found by the Federal Capital Territory, or FCT, Police Command’s officers.

The vehicle was stolen on Thursday in the vicinity of the Lugbe sector of the territory, according to a statement released by SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, on Friday.

She clarified that on Thursday night, a good Samaritan called the Command in panic to report a carjacking that had occurred nearby.

According to the PPRO, six armed men approached one Kemi H. Adidiru when she was stopped suddenly while she was traveling from Lugbe to the city center under a pedestrian bridge on Alieta Road in Lugbe.

The PPRO claims that the owners of the 2012 black Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (Reg. No. ABJ 670 EY) and her driver were forcibly removed by the criminals, who then fled with the vehicle and her possessions.

Alarmed by the robbery, the witness immediately alerted the Command Control Room, giving vital details regarding the car and the perpetrators’ escape route, the statement continued.

“The police moved swiftly, sending patrol teams throughout the FCT and warning strategic checkpoints.

“The stolen vehicle was discovered by police officers at a checkpoint along Dantata Bridge, Galadimawa Road, at around 11:35 p.m.

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The suspects fled as officers tried to stop them, starting a fast-paced pursuit that ended at Airport Junction. The suspects engaged the police in a heavy gunfight after they started fire upon arriving at another police checkpoint near the Airport Junction.

The criminals fled into the nearby bushes after abandoning the car and their gun due to the police’s superior firepower.

“The car and a bag containing Halimat Adediru’s international passport, money, and other valuables were successfully recovered.”

According to the PPRO, the seized objects have subsequently been given back to their original owner, who has expressed sincere appreciation for the police’s professionalism and quick response.