FCTA Clears Kidnappers’ Hideout, Deploys Drones & Forest Guards

By TOSI ORE

THE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a sweeping security operation, clearing the Kobi forest—a notorious hideout for kidnappers operating around Guzape and Asokoro villages.

The move followed a 15 September attack in Kobi and Kpaduma III villages, where kidnappers killed a vigilante commander and abducted two villagers, who were later rescued by police under FCT Commissioner Ajao Adewale.

Leading Monday’s clearance exercise, the Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, said the forest had become a haven for criminals.

“This operation is to frustrate kidnappers’ plans. The community has given full consent to clear the cashew trees, prioritising safety over compensation,” he said.

Galadima added that all shanties around the villages would also be demolished, while a police post was being considered to tighten surveillance.

The exercise, he explained, is part of a broader effort already extended to Apo Resettlement, Apo Guzape, and Mabushi, where criminal hideouts were previously cleared.

Speaking on additional measures, Adamu Gwary, Director of FCT Security Services (represented by Dr. Peter Olumiji), said the administration is adopting drone surveillance, forest guards, 24-hour police posts, and solar-powered streetlights to secure vulnerable areas.

He noted that Kobi forest had served as a transit route for kidnappers linking Karu, Jikwoyi, Orozo, and Kurudu.

Residents welcomed the move, with Iliya Iwadagba of Kobi recalling how peaceful living in the area was until five years ago when criminal elements began to take over.

“Anytime we passed through the forest in the evening, attackers emerged from the bush. We couldn’t use the route anymore,” he lamented.

The FCTA said further recommendations from its security committee will guide ongoing efforts to tackle kidnappings across the territory.