Late on Monday night, the usually peaceful Apo Resettlement area in Abuja was thrown into chaos. Around 10:30 p.m., a group of armed robbers stormed the Zone E Extension area. Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud gunshots and seeing people running for safety. Many residents were caught off guard as the robbers moved quickly, threatening passersby and targeting vehicles.
Commercial motorcyclists, who are always on the alert in the area, were among the first to notice the trouble. They immediately alerted the police, who responded with urgency.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Apo Division, CSP Uchenna Igwebuike, quickly mobilized his team to the scene. Upon arrival, the police found the robbers already engaged in their criminal activities. A fierce gun battle ensued as the officers tried to stop the robbers from causing further harm.
The situation escalated quickly, and a reinforcement team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Isyaku Sharu, was called in for backup. The police used superior firepower to push back the robbers, who eventually fled into the surrounding hills.
During the operation, three victims were rescued from the scene. All had suffered injuries from the robbers’ attack. They were quickly rushed to Sahad Hospital in Apo Resettlement for emergency treatment.
Tragically, one of the victims later died from his injuries and was pronounced dead by medical personnel. His remains have been deposited at the hospital’s morgue.
A light green Toyota Corolla with registration number GWA 620 AU, belonging to one of the victims, was recovered at the scene. The car had apparently been targeted by the robbers before the police arrived.
What the Government and Police Said
FCT Police Commissioner, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, addressed the press on Tuesday, expressing his deep condolences to the family of the deceased.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident and share in the pain of the bereaved family,” he said.
“The police command is fully committed to protecting lives and property in the FCT. We will not rest until these criminals are brought to justice.”
He assured residents that a joint manhunt involving police operatives and local vigilantes is currently underway to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Looking Forward: Community Calls for Action
The attack has left residents shaken and calling for increased security in the area. Many are demanding more police patrols, especially at night, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“We need more security here. People should not have to live in fear in their own community,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous.
Community leaders are also urging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the police.
What to Do: Public Safety Measures
The police have issued a strong appeal to the public, especially residents of Apo Resettlement and its environs.
“If you see anyone with gunshot wounds or behaving suspiciously, please report immediately to the nearest police station or call our emergency numbers: 08032003913 or 08028940883,” said CP Adewale.
Residents are encouraged to look out for each other and to cooperate with law enforcement to help keep the community safe.
Quote of the Day
“A community that stands together and watches out for one another is stronger than any criminal who tries to break its spirit.”
— Anonymous Community Elder, Apo Resettlement
As the police continue their search for the suspects, the people of Apo Resettlement are hoping for swift justice and a return to peace. This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, residents are urged to stay alert and work together to help keep their community safe.
