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At least six suspects connected to the killing that led to unrest at Gosa Market on Airport Road in Abuja have been taken into custody by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command.
The disturbance, which instilled fear in both traders and residents, ensued after the death of a man accused of pilfering tubers of yam. Consequently, many individuals vacated the market, known for its affordability for food purchases in Abuja.
During a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Police Commissioner Adewale Ajao stated that police swiftly intervened in the area after the incident to ease tensions and restore order.
He detailed that the turmoil began when an individual took the law into his own hands by lynching a man accused of theft.
Ajao categorized the killing as a straightforward case of murder and confirmed that six individuals are currently in police custody regarding the matter.
He said, "A young man was accused of stealing some tubers of yam at the market. Subsequently, someone decided to take the law into his hands, which led to the crisis."
He indicated that police quickly moved in to calm the situation and restore normalcy.
Ajao noted that after the incident, police worked with community leaders and traditional rulers to foster dialogue, which proved effective in resolving tensions.
He confirmed that as of Thursday, Gosa Market had resumed full operations under strict police supervision, with officers present to uphold order. "The market is open, and business is thriving there. Our police are on site, supervising the marketplace," Ajao remarked.
He also warned against the growing issue of impersonation and misuse of false identities, particularly regarding vehicles with unauthorized diplomatic or official number plates, which are often associated with criminal activities.
Ajao condemned the illegal use of tinted windows, pledging that enforcement measures would persist to enhance public safety.
He stated, "We are pursuing you. The only reason for such actions is to engage in criminality." He assured that arrests would continue.
Ajao highlighted the command's accomplishments over the previous two months, reporting 49 criminal cases and the apprehension of 82 suspects.
He noted that several kidnapping and robbery attempts were thwarted throughout various areas of the city.
Additionally, he mentioned the police's success in combating theft, fraud, child trafficking, rape, and other violent offenses, with many suspects arrested and victims rescued.
Weapons, vehicles, cash, communication devices, and other criminal instruments were also seized.
He added that children were saved from traffickers, abandoned infants were delivered to the Social Welfare Centre, and support was offered to crime victims.
Looking forward, the Commissioner promised residents that the command would enhance community engagement, conduct intelligence-led operations, and launch public awareness campaigns to tackle emerging threats.
He reaffirmed the FCT Police Command’s dedication to maintaining peace and security through proactive and coordinated policing efforts.
