Photos: Three Killed in Foiled Bank Robbery Attempt in Abuja

 

Three individuals tragically lost their lives yesterday during a fierce gun battle that erupted as security forces thwarted a planned bank robbery at First Bank PLC in Abaji, Abuja.

The operation, jointly conducted by the Nigerian Police and the Military, unfolded on Thursday evening following a distress call received around 5:00 PM.

According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT police, under the command of Commissioner CP Benneth Igweh, swiftly mobilized with military support to confront the armed assailants.

The attackers, reportedly armed with dynamites, targeted both the Abaji Divisional Police headquarters and the bank in an attempt to execute their robbery.

In a tense exchange of gunfire, security forces engaged the robbers, resulting in casualties on both sides.

Three suspects were apprehended, identified as Usman (surname undisclosed), believed to be the gang leader, Nuhu Musa, aged 41, and Muhammed Aminu, aged 25, all sustained severe gunshot wounds.

Tragically, one unidentified suspect was fatally injured and subsequently set ablaze by local residents following the confrontation.

Among the casualties were a police operative and the alleged gang leader, who sustained critical injuries during the exchange.

Despite efforts to save their lives, both succumbed to their injuries at a nearby hospital, as confirmed by medical personnel.

CP Benneth Igweh praised the effectiveness of the coordinated operation, emphasizing the commitment of the police force to safeguarding the Federal Capital Territory from criminal activities.

He reassured residents that such incidents would not be tolerated, underscoring the paramount importance of public safety.

Currently, authorities are engaged in a manhunt to locate and apprehend any fleeing suspects who sustained injuries during the shootout.