IBY
Peterside Rejoice Eneky
In a press briefing today at the FCT Police Command Headquarters in Abuja, Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu provided details on recent developments, including the recovery of a stolen vehicle and the arrest of suspects, as well as a separate case involving attempted murder and illegal firearm possession.
On December 25, 2024, a black Honda Civic (Reg. No. ABJ 60 NH) was stolen from its parking spot at Berger Park along the Lugbe Expressway. The owner, Abdullahi Bala, reported the theft to the police, prompting an investigation by the FCT Police Command’s Anti-Car Theft Unit.
Following their efforts, the stolen vehicle was successfully recovered. During questioning, the arrested suspects—Mohammed Shuaibu, Sani Bala, and Ismail Mohammed—admitted to stealing the vehicle. They claimed they parked the car at a filling station after the theft and used master keys to break into the vehicle.
Commissioner Disu emphasized the importance of installing car tracking devices to aid in the swift recovery of stolen vehicles and enhance investigative success. He urged residents of Abuja to take proactive security measures to protect their vehicles.
In a separate incident, on December 26, 2024, at Najob Guest Inn in Bwari, a suspect identified as Obinna Tobinna Nwigwe was arrested after he allegedly shot a hotel guest, Andrew Philemon, in an attempted murder. The altercation began when Nwigwe, the hotel owner, asked Philemon to leave the premises for smoking. When the victim refused, Nwigwe reportedly pulled out a pump-action firearm and shot Philemon in the thigh and buttocks. The victim is currently in critical condition in the hospital.
Following the incident, police conducted a search of Nwigwe’s residence, where they recovered a range of firearms and ammunition, including a pump-action rifle, local rifles, and a significant quantity of ammunition. Authorities also seized a bulletproof jacket and other related items, all of which are now part of the ongoing investigation. The suspect, who claimed to be a member of a vigilante group, is now in police custody facing charges of attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms.
Commissioner Disu reiterated the importance of enhanced security awareness among residents of Abuja. He urged both vehicle owners and the general public to adopt measures that safeguard their properties and ensure their safety, particularly in light of these recent incidents.
The FCT Police Command continues to investigate both cases and assured the public of its commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of residents in the Federal Capital Territory.
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