Police Officer And Two Robbers Killed During Attempted Bank Robbery in Abuja

Police Officer And Two Robbers Killed During Attempted Bank Robbery in Abuja

A joint team comprising FCT Command police personnel and other security agencies successfully thwarted an attempted robbery at a First Bank branch in Abaji on Thursday. The incident unfolded as armed robbers, accompanied by accomplices, attacked the bank late in the afternoon.

According to reports, a fierce shootout erupted during the robbery attempt, resulting in injuries to a police officer and a bank security guard. In a dramatic turn, enraged locals managed to apprehend and fatally burn one of the wounded robbers who failed to escape.

Prior to targeting the bank, the robbers initiated their assault at a nearby police station, where they fatally shot Inspector Habila. Subsequently, they proceeded to the bank premises and opened fire, though they were unable to breach the strong room and only managed to steal cash from the counter. Additionally, a bank security guard sustained injuries while attempting to take cover.

Responding swiftly to the scene, a coordinated force consisting of police, soldiers, vigilantes, and hunters engaged the robbers in a prolonged gun battle, resulting in the deaths of two assailants. Authorities, including FCT Police Commissioner CP Benneth Igweh, promptly arrived at the scene, confirming the neutralization of two robbers during the exchange of gunfire.

CP Igweh praised the collaborative efforts of the security team in thwarting the robbery attempt and expressed condolences to the family of the slain inspector. Efforts to locate any remaining suspects are ongoing, with police anti-robbery squads and hunters combing the Abaji area.

The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security agencies in combating criminal activities, particularly in vulnerable communities.