Police in the Federal Capital Territory FCT) have recovered a 2012 black Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (Reg. No. ABJ 670 EY) which was stolen at gunpoint in Lugbe area on Thursday.
The vehicle was stolen from Engr. Kemi Adidiru while she was driving from Lugbe to the city center after being abruptly stopped and surrounded by six armed men under a pedestrian bridge along Alieta Road, Lugbe.
Giving details, FCT police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said, “The robbers forcefully ejected both her and her driver from her vehicle and sped off with the car and her belongings at gunpoint.
The witness, alarmed by the robbery, promptly notified the police Control Room, providing crucial information about the vehicle and the suspects’ direction of escape. The police acted quickly, alerting strategic checkpoints and deploying patrol teams across the FCT.
“At approximately 11:35 PM, police operatives spotted the stolen vehicle at a checkpoint along Dantata Bridge, Galadimawa Road. When officers attempted to stop the suspects, they sped away, leading to a high-speed chase towards Airport Junction. Upon reaching another police checkpoint at the airport junction, the suspects opened fire, engaging the police in a fierce gun battle. Thanks to the superior firepower of the police, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and their firearm, fleeing into the surrounding bush.”
The police further stated that the vehicle was recovered along with a bag containing an international passport belonging to Engr. Halimat Adediru, cash and other valuables. The items have since been returned to their rightful owner who expressed profound gratitude for the prompt response and professionalism of the police.
“Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, commended the vigilant bystander for their swift action and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities to the police using the emergency numbers: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, and 07057337653. Your vigilance can make a difference!”, the spokesperson added.
