Nigeria Lives Lost as Security Forces Thwart Daring Bank Heist in Abuja

Three killed in gun battle as Nigerian police, and military foil 15-man bank robbery attempt in Abaji, Abuja. Suspects apprehended, search ongoing.

In a joint operation between the Nigerian Police and the Military, three lives were tragically lost during a fierce gun battle that foiled a planned 15-man bank robbery attempt at the First Bank PLC in Abaji, Abuja, on Thursday. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed that upon receiving a distress call around 5:00 PM, the FCT police, led by the Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth Igweh, swiftly mobilized and collaborated with the military to repel the simultaneous attacks on both the Abaji Divisional Police Headquarters and the bank.

The armed robbers, who had attempted to breach the bank's security using dynamites, were met with an intense gun duel as the security forces engaged them. Their onslaught forced the robbers to flee, with several sustaining bullet wounds. Three suspects, identified as Usman (surname unknown, the alleged gang leader), Nuhu Musa, 41, and Muhammed Aminu, 25, were apprehended with grave injuries.

Tragically, one unidentified suspect was set ablaze by an angry mob at the scene after being neutralized by the security forces. Amid the intense exchange of gunfire, one police operative and the gang leader were rushed to the hospital but were later confirmed dead by the attending physician. Other injured individuals are currently receiving medical treatment.

A search operation is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects who sustained bullet injuries during the confrontation. CP Igweh commended the effectiveness of the combined operation and reaffirmed the command's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of FCT residents, emphasizing that their security is non-negotiable.