Residents around Abuja’s National Hospital axis were left stunned after a police operation led to the arrest of a suspected criminal.
The armed robbery suspect was caught following a carefully planned sting that unfolded in broad daylight.
Yu Moreover, the operation was described as swift and precise, catching the suspect completely off guard. Many residents had earlier raised concerns about rising motorcycle robberies in the area.
Meanwhile, the suspect is said to have confessed to multiple crimes, adding a twist to the incident.
A series of robbery reports had been received in recent weeks, especially involving motorcycle riders and armed passengers. Therefore, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Abdullahi Hassan, designed a tactical plan to trap the suspects. The strategy involved deploying a female officer as bait, while other officers stayed hidden nearby.
On Sunday, June 21, 2026, the plan was set into motion. The female officer stood at the National Hospital junction, appearing vulnerable. Furthermore, plain-clothed officers were positioned around the area, waiting patiently.
After about 30 minutes, the suspects arrived exactly as expected.
A motorcycle carrying two men approached the officer. The passenger, holding a knife, threatened her and demanded her valuables. He warned that she would be harmed if she resisted.
However, the officer remained calm and cooperated. She handed over her belongings as instructed. The suspects then sped off, unaware they had walked into a trap.
In addition, CSP Hassan and his team immediately followed in a decoy vehicle. A chase began towards the National Stadium axis. The suspects were eventually forced off the road after a tactical move by the police.
The suspects attempted to escape on foot. Meanwhile, the rider managed to flee into nearby bushes. However, the passenger was captured by the officers after a brief pursuit.
Items recovered included a knife, three mobile phones, and the motorcycle used for operations. During questioning, the suspect identified himself as Yahuza Sanni from Bauchi State. He reportedly admitted involvement in several robberies.
He also confessed to carrying out more than 13 successful operations across the Abuja axis. This revelation has further raised concerns about organized street crimes in the area.
Furthermore, investigations have been intensified to track down other gang members. The police have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to dismantle such networks.
The arrest highlights the commitment of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to public safety. It also shows that proactive policing can yield strong results.
Therefore, residents are urged to remain alert and report suspicious activities.
