By Esther Ososanya
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has clarified details surrounding the armed robbery incident that occurred in Zone E, Apo Resettlement, on June 23, 2025, cautioning against the spread of misinformation that could derail ongoing investigations.
The development was made public via an official press release signed by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, and made available to journalists.
According to the police, the incident took place around 10:30 p.m. when officers received a distress call from a motorcyclist alerting them to a robbery in progress. Police operatives swiftly responded to the call, confronting the armed suspects in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“During the encounter, three individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries, and regrettably, one of them later died in the hospital,” the statement noted.
A vehicle belonging to one of the victims was recovered from the scene.
The Command disclosed that a joint operation comprising police operatives and local vigilantes has been launched to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
“We are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. A coordinated manhunt is ongoing,” SP Adeh stated.
Controversial Church Video Sparks Concern
However, the police also addressed concerns about a video clip that has gone viral online, originating from a church service. In the clip, a religious leader alleged that a member of his congregation identified the assailants as children of herdsmen and further claimed that police officers at the scene withdrew without taking action.
The Command firmly debunked these allegations, describing them as “entirely false and grossly misleading”.
“These claims, made from an influential platform, are capable of undermining public trust in the police and jeopardising current security efforts,” the statement warned.
Police Urge Accountability, Responsible Communication
The Command emphasised that its earlier public statement had provided accurate and verified information on the incident and the response of law enforcement agents. It also advised religious and community leaders to exercise caution and verify sensitive information through official police channels before making public statements.
“In the interest of justice and accountability, we urge the religious leader to encourage the church member cited in the video to come forward and provide any helpful information to aid the investigation,” the release added.
Call for Public Support
The FCT Police reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the territory, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities and to rely solely on verified police communication for updates.
The Command called on members of the public to refrain from circulating unverified claims that could misinform the public or obstruct the course of justice.
Police emergency numbers and contact lines remain active, and the public is urged to make full use of them.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
