Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
ABUJA, Nigeria — June 5, 2026 — The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested three suspects who appeared in a viral social media video showing individuals dressed in military camouflage and openly displaying AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and communication devices.
The video, which circulated widely across social media platforms in recent days, showed suspected bandits carrying weapons and walkie-talkies while posing in military-style attire. The footage triggered public concern and prompted an immediate investigation by the police.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja on Friday, June 5, 2026, the Commissioner of Police for the FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, said he ordered a detailed forensic examination of the viral footage immediately after it came to his attention.
According to the police commissioner, the command also directed operatives to identify and arrest all individuals connected to the disturbing video.
CP Sanusi disclosed that digital forensic analysis and intelligence gathering led operatives of the FCT Police Command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) Sector 5 and personnel from the Zuba Police Division to a hideout located in Runji Village, Zuba, within the Federal Capital Territory.
The operation, which took place on May 25, 2026, was led by the Divisional Police Officer of Zuba Division, Chief Superintendent of Police Ogu Caleb Ikechukwu.
During the raid, police arrested three suspects identified as Umar Babangida, Adamu Yeti, and Yahaya Idris. Authorities said all three suspects are residents of Rijana in Kaduna State.
According to investigators, preliminary findings revealed that the suspects had previously possessed AK-47 rifles allegedly supplied by their gang leader, identified only as "Esco," who is based in Rijana, Kaduna State.
Police described Esco as a key figure in the criminal network and confirmed that he remains at large. Security operatives have launched a manhunt to locate and arrest him along with any other members of the gang.
Further examination of the suspects' mobile phones reportedly uncovered additional videos and photographs showing them dressed in military camouflage while carrying AK-47 rifles and walkie-talkies similar to those displayed in the viral footage.
The recovered digital evidence is expected to play a significant role in the ongoing investigation as authorities work to determine the full extent of the suspects' activities and possible involvement in other crimes.
Police also recovered several exhibits during the operation, including one AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition, eight mobile phones, two jackknives, power banks, and numerous photographs and video recordings allegedly showing the suspects posing with firearms and ammunition.
Security officials believe the recovered materials provide crucial evidence linking the suspects to the viral footage that sparked the investigation.
The arrest comes amid ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and the illegal possession of firearms across the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring states.
The use of military camouflage by criminal groups has become a growing concern for security agencies, as such disguises can mislead members of the public and create confusion during security operations.
CP Sanusi reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Police Command to protecting residents and dismantling criminal networks operating within Abuja and surrounding communities.
He urged members of the public to continue providing useful information to security agencies and to report suspicious activities promptly.
As of June 5, 2026, the three suspects remain in police custody while investigations continue. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing gang leader, recover additional weapons, and identify other individuals connected to the group.
The suspects are expected to face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
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