The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command says it has arrested four suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate during an anti-kidnapping operation in the Paze–Byazhin area of Abuja. Police authorities disclosed that one of the suspects, who was heavily pregnant at the time of her arrest, later gave birth to a baby boy while in custody.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has announced the arrest of four suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate during an anti-kidnapping operation conducted in the Paze–Byazhin area on June 9.

Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, disclosed the development in Abuja, stating that the suspects were apprehended following intelligence-led security operations targeting criminal networks operating within the territory.
The suspects were identified by police as Yahaya Abdullahi, Muhammed Yunusa, Hauwa Shafiu and Shamsudeen Mustapha.

According to the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were allegedly involved in kidnapping-related activities within the FCT.

Police alleged that Hauwa Shafiu, who was heavily pregnant at the time of her arrest, provided logistical support to the group and was responsible for preparing meals for gang members and their victims.

While in police custody, Shafiu reportedly delivered a baby boy. The Commissioner of Police stated that both mother and child received medical attention and were in stable condition.

Security operatives also reported recovering several items during the operation, including four motorcycles, 41 tramadol tablets of varying strengths, ₦320,000 in cash, five mobile phones, one Point-of-Sale (POS) machine and cooking utensils.

The police said investigations are ongoing and that efforts are being intensified to identify and apprehend other individuals who may be connected to the alleged criminal network.

Authorities urged residents to continue providing timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts against kidnapping and other violent crimes in the FCT.

Community Impact
Kidnapping remains one of the major security concerns affecting parts of the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring states. Security agencies have intensified operations in recent months amid growing public concern over abductions and related criminal activities.

Important Note
The suspects remain accused persons. Their alleged involvement in criminal activities has not been determined by a court of law.