FCT Police dismiss alleged kidnapping scare at Abuja primary school

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has dismissed reports of an alleged kidnapping incident at Phase 1 Primary School in Gbagalape, Abuja, describing the alarm as false.

The incident, which triggered panic among pupils, teachers, and residents on Thursday morning, prompted an immediate response from security operatives following reports that kidnappers had invaded the school premises.

According to the FCT Police Command, officers attached to the Nyanya Division received a distress call at about 10:30 a.m. alleging that a kidnapping was in progress at the school.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Nyanya Division subsequently deployed officers and surveillance teams to the area to assess the situation and secure the school.

However, preliminary investigations revealed that the commotion stemmed from students suddenly shouting “kidnappers” and running out of the school premises, causing panic among staff members and people living in the surrounding community.

In response, security personnel cordoned off the school and conducted a comprehensive search of the premises and its surroundings.

The police said officers thoroughly questioned individuals within and around the school and carried out extensive searches but found no evidence of a kidnapping incident.

“No kidnapping incident was established, no suspect was sighted, and no victim was identified,” the Command stated.

Officers also patrolled nearby hills, boundaries, and adjoining areas while extending security checks to neighbouring schools to ensure there was no threat to students or residents.

The police warned residents against circulating unverified information capable of causing unnecessary fear and public disorder.

“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension within communities,” the statement said.

Ahmed Sanusi, Commissioner of Police for the FCT, encouraged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious movements and emergencies through established communication channels.

He reiterated the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents, schools, and public institutions across the Federal Capital Territory.

The police advised residents to report emergencies or suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines as authorities continue efforts to maintain public safety and respond swiftly to security concerns in the nation’s capital.