Tension as gunmen disguised as vigilantes kidnap family of 3 in FCT

A man, his wife, and their son were abducted from their residence in the Chikakore area of Kubwa, Bwari Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), by armed men posing as local vigilantes.

The attack occurred at midnight on Monday when the kidnappers, armed with machetes and sticks, deceived the man into opening his gate before storming the house and taking the family captive.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Abuja Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the attackers, numbering seven, claimed to be vigilantes to gain access to the residence.

“A preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects, disguised as vigilante members, attacked the victim’s residence with machetes and sticks and abducted him and three members of his family,” Adeh stated.

During the commotion, a neighbor who attempted to intervene was injured by the assailants. The injured individual is currently receiving treatment at Kubwa General Hospital.

The police have launched a comprehensive search-and-rescue operation to secure the release of the victims and apprehend the perpetrators. Residents have been urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report any information that could aid in the investigation.

This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Bwari, which has seen a rise in kidnappings for ransom. In 2024, at least 49 residents were reportedly abducted in the area, including the tragic case of Nabeeha and her family. Nabeeha’s father was released to raise a ransom of N60 million, but the kidnappers killed her and increased their demand to N100 million.

The recurring kidnappings have caused many residents to abandon their homes, fearing for their safety. Security agencies have assured the public of intensified efforts to tackle these criminal activities.