Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have apprehended seven suspected members of a notorious “one-chance” syndicate operating in the Abuja metropolis. The police also recovered 13 vehicles allegedly used in their criminal activities.
The suspects, identified as Abba Godwin, Abraham Anthony, Moses Obi, Moses Steven, Jude Simon, Terfa Akaaer and Hyacinth Avetse, were paraded on Thursday by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, at the command headquarters in Abuja.
During the parade, CP Disu highlighted the syndicate’s tactics, including using tinted vehicles to conceal their activities and evade detection.
He said, “A notable trend identified during these operations is that most vehicles used by the syndicates are tinted, making it easier for the criminals to conceal their activities and avoid detection. The command has dismantled key syndicates, apprehended suspects, and recovered crucial exhibits.”
CP Disu revealed that three suspects, including Godwin, Anthony, and Obi, were linked to a network led by a suspect, Friday Ogwuche, who remains at large.
He said the syndicate operated from Mararaba in Nasarawa State and extended its activities to densely populated areas in the FCT, such as Aya Junction and Kubwa Expressway.
“Godwin, 42; a three-month member of the gang, acted as a fake passenger to lure victims. He admitted to earning between ₦20,000 and ₦40,000 daily from the group’s operations. Anthony, 27, joined the gang in August 2024, targeting commuters during rush hours at Nyanya Market and Area 1. He confessed to making an average of ₦40,000 per operation.
“Obi has been active since June 2024. Obi helped identify victims at bus stops and markets. He also provided intelligence about the group’s primary driver, nicknamed “Dangote,’” CP Disu added.
He said a green Golf 3 vehicle and a grey Peugeot 406 car were recovered from the suspects.
In another operation, CP Disu said the police operatives arrested three additional suspects believed to be members of a different “one-chance” gang.
He said, “Steven,23, is based in North Bank, Benue State. Steven admitted to travelling to Abuja during festive seasons to collaborate with the gang organised by a “Baba Peter” leader from Plateau State.
“Also, Simon has been involved in robbery for over a year, primarily targeting early-morning commuters entering Abuja.
“Akaaer is a taxi driver residing near Mararaba Park, Akaaer admitted to joining the gang and revealed their strategy of filling vehicles with accomplices while leaving one seat vacant to lure unsuspecting victims.”
After the briefing, CP Disu urged the public to remain vigilant, especially as the holiday season approaches, and to continue reporting suspicious activities. He emphasized that the success of these operations would not have been possible without the active collaboration of the community.
CP Disu said, “The public’s continued support is vital to the fight against crime. Together, we will continue to make strides in making the FCT and its environs a safer place.”
The Commissioner assured the public that the FCT Police Command would maintain its tactical operations throughout the Yuletide season, reinforcing its commitment to preventing further criminal activities and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors to Abuja.
CP Disu stated, “We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that Abuja remains a safe place for everyone. These operations are just the beginning, and we remain resolute in our mission to rid the city of criminal elements.”
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