Operation of joint security forces led by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command on Wednesday arrested 19 suspected cultists in Bakassi Yimitu Village, located within the Apo-Waru axis of Abuja.
The operation, which was carried out in response to growing concerns from residents over persistent cult-related activities in the area, involved police officers working in collaboration with local vigilante groups and hunters.
According to a statement issued by Josephine Adeh, FCT Police Public Relations Officer, the patrol team encountered a group suspected of being behind the series of violent incidents that have plagued the community.
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“On sighting the security personnel, the suspects allegedly opened fire, triggering a fierce gun duel.
“During the confrontation, 19 suspects were arrested and detained at the Waru Police Outstation, while several others fled with various degrees of injuries,” the statement said.
The Command reported that one police officer and a member of the vigilante group sustained serious injuries in the exchange of gunfire and were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.
The situation escalated later that day when the escaped assailants reportedly regrouped and launched a brazen attack on the Waru Police Outstation in a bid to free their detained colleagues.
“The attackers vandalised parts of the station, damaged three police patrol Hilux vans, and destroyed six privately owned vehicles parked on the premises”, the Police noted.
However, the police, with swift reinforcement, repelled the attackers and restored order in the area.
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Ajao Adewale, FCT Commissioner of Police, CP, has vowed that the command will pursue all remaining members of the syndicate and bring them to justice.
“The Command strongly condemns these cowardly attacks on our personnel and facilities. Any assault on law enforcement will be met with the full force of the law,” Adewale warned.
He also commended the gallantry of the officers involved and urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, encouraging them to report any suspicious activities to the police via 08032003913 or 08028940883.
