Jun 6, 2026

FCT Police Nab Young Kidnappers Who Flaunted AK-47s in Viral Video

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Abuja– In a story that has Nigerians breathing a collective sigh of relief mixed with quiet satisfaction, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command has shown that sometimes, the bravado criminals display online can become their undoing.

Three young men from Kaduna State, who proudly posed with weapons in a now-infamous video, are in custody after a rapid, intelligence-driven operation that feels like a win for everyday citizens tired of insecurity.

The suspects — Umar Babangida, 25; Adamu Yeti, 22; and Yahaya Idris, 24 — all residents of Rijana in Kaduna State, thought they could brandish AK-47 rifles, ammunition, walkie-talkies, and military camouflage on camera without consequences.

The video went viral, sparking outrage and fear across social media as people wondered how such open displays of criminality could go unchecked.

But the FCT Police weren’t having it.

Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi acted decisively the moment the footage surfaced.

He immediately ordered a detailed forensic analysis to trace its origins and launched a full manhunt.

Thanks to smart digital tracking and solid intelligence, operatives zeroed in on the suspects’ hideout in Runji Village, Zuba.

In the early hours of May 25, 2026 — precisely at 3:22 a.m. — a coordinated team from the FCT Police VCRU Sector 5 and Zuba Division swooped in, arresting all three without drama.

What makes this case particularly human and relatable is how it started with ordinary people sharing and reacting to that disturbing video.

On platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram, Nigerians expressed everything from anger to helplessness: “How can these boys be this bold?” and “Is no one safe anymore?”

The police turned that public outcry into action, proving that in today’s world, your digital footprint can lead straight to your doorstep.

During the raid, officers reportedly recovered an AK-47 rifle with ammunition, additional videos from the suspects’ phones, and other items linking them to a larger gang operating under a fugitive leader known as ‘Esco.’

CP Sanusi described the arrests as a clear example of intelligence-led policing — not waiting for the next kidnapping or attack, but getting ahead of the threat.

For many families in the FCT and surrounding areas who live with the constant shadow of banditry and abduction, this feels personal. It’s the kind of story that restores a bit of faith that the system can work when it moves with purpose.

Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with users hailing the police for their speed.

Posts praising “swift justice” and “digital detectives” flooded timelines, though some added cautious notes — calling for thorough prosecution and urging authorities to dismantle the full network these young men were part of.

Others reflected on the bigger picture: young men in their early twenties already deep into crime, a sobering sign of how insecurity and limited opportunities continue to pull youths into dangerous paths in parts of the North.

This isn’t just about catching three individuals; it highlights the evolving cat-and-mouse game between security forces and criminals who use social media for bravado or recruitment.

In a country where kidnapping has become a tragic industry in some regions, moments like this — where arrogance meets accountability — offer hope and a warning to others.

As investigations continue, many are watching to see what charges stick and whether this leads to more breakthroughs.

For now, the people of the FCT and beyond can take some comfort in knowing that flaunting weapons on video no longer guarantees impunity. The police have sent a clear message: we are watching, and we will act.

In the words echoing across social platforms since the announcement: well done to the FCT Police Command.

In a time when bad news often dominates, stories of effective response like this deserve to be shared widely — and remembered.