The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has apprehended seven suspected members of a notorious “one-chance” syndicate operating in Abuja. During the operation, the police also recovered 13 vehicles allegedly used in the group’s criminal activities.

Suspects Paraded by Police

The suspects, identified as Abba Godwin, Abraham Anthony, Moses Obi, Moses Steven, Jude Simon, Terfa Akaaer, and Hyacinth Avetse, were paraded on Thursday at the FCT Police Command headquarters in Abuja. Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, detailed the syndicate’s operations and the tactics used to evade detection.

“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,” Disu said.

How the Syndicate Operated

The gang reportedly used tinted vehicles to carry out their activities, targeting densely populated areas in Abuja such as AYA Junction, Kubwa Expressway, Nyanya Market, and Area 1. The operation extended from Mararaba in Nasarawa State into the heart of the FCT.

Disu revealed that three suspects—Abba Godwin, Abraham Anthony, and Moses Obi—were linked to a larger network led by a suspect known as Friday Ogwuche, who is still at large.

Roles of Key Members:

• Abba Godwin (42): A member of the gang for three months, Godwin posed as a fake passenger to lure unsuspecting victims. He admitted to earning between ₦20,000 and ₦40,000 daily from the group’s operations.
• Abraham Anthony (27): Anthony joined the gang in August 2024, targeting commuters during rush hours. He confessed to making an average of ₦40,000 per operation.
• Moses Obi: Active since June 2024, Obi was responsible for identifying victims at bus stops and markets. He also provided intelligence about the gang’s primary driver, nicknamed “Dangote.”

Vehicles and Evidence Recovered

The police recovered several vehicles used by the syndicate, including a green Golf 3 and a grey Peugeot 406. These vehicles were integral to the gang’s operations, enabling them to move quickly and avoid detection.

Arrests of Additional Gang Members

In a separate operation, three more suspects linked to a different “one-chance” gang were apprehended. These suspects included:

• Moses Steven (23): Based in North Bank, Benue State, Steven confessed to traveling to Abuja during festive seasons to collaborate with the gang led by “Baba Peter” from Plateau State.
• Jude Simon: Simon has been involved in robbery for over a year, primarily targeting early-morning commuters entering Abuja.
• Terfa Akaaer: A taxi driver residing near Mararaba Park, Akaaer admitted to being part of the gang. He explained their strategy of filling vehicles with accomplices while leaving one seat vacant to lure unsuspecting victims.

Police Commitment to Curbing Crime

Commissioner Disu reiterated the FCT Police Command’s commitment to tackling organized crime and ensuring the safety of residents. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.

Community Awareness and Prevention

The police emphasized the importance of community awareness in combating “one-chance” operations. Commuters are advised to:

1. Avoid boarding vehicles with tinted windows or unmarked taxis.
2. Use reputable transportation services.
3. Share travel details with family or friends.
4. Report suspicious incidents to the authorities immediately.

Ongoing Investigations

Efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate, including the suspected ringleader, Friday Ogwuche. The police have also pledged to intensify patrols and surveillance in high-risk areas to prevent future incidents.

The successful arrests and recovery of vehicles are seen as significant steps in dismantling criminal networks in Abuja, offering a measure of reassurance to residents and commuters.