The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has revealed that nine armed criminals were killed during gun battles with police operatives, while six officers lost their lives in the line of duty between October and December 2025.

The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Miller Dantawaye, disclosed on Friday while presenting the command’s security scorecard for the last quarter of the year at the police headquarters in Abuja. He explained that the criminals were neutralised during high-risk operations targeting kidnapping and armed robbery across the territory.

According to Dantawaye, the suspects were killed during exchanges of gunfire as they attempted to escape arrest or abduct victims. He described the operations as intense and dangerous, noting that police operatives often faced heavily armed criminals determined to evade justice.

The commissioner also paid tribute to six police officers who lost their lives while carrying out their duties within the same period. He described their deaths as painful losses and acknowledged their sacrifice in protecting lives and property in the nation’s capital. Dantawaye said their commitment serves as a reminder of the risks officers face daily in the line of duty.

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Despite the losses, the police command recorded significant achievements. A total of 160 suspects were arrested from about 300 reported cases involving various crimes. These included kidnapping, armed robbery, car theft, and “one-chance” robbery incidents. The command also rescued 24 kidnapped victims, including women and children, from criminal hideouts and forest areas.

Dantawaye further disclosed that 96 suspects were charged in court during the period, with 60 convictions already secured, while other cases remain ongoing. He added that police recovered a large cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles, shotguns, locally made firearms, ammunition, stolen vehicles, illicit drugs, and over ₦15 million linked to criminal activities.

While thanking residents, sister security agencies, and the Inspector-General of Police for their support, the commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and community engagement. He urged residents to continue providing timely information, assuring them that the police remain determined to improve security across the Federal Capital Territory.

The FCT has faced ongoing security challenges in recent years due to its strategic importance and proximity to states affected by criminal activities. In response, the police say they will sustain aggressive operations and collaboration to ensure Abuja remains safe for residents and visitors alike.