Kaduna, January 6, 2026 – In a swift and decisive response, troops from the 1 Division Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 1 of Operation Fansan Yamma, successfully foiled a major armed robbery attempt on the critical Abuja–Kaduna highway this afternoon. The intervention prevented potential loss of life, injury, or abduction of commuters on one of Nigeria’s most vital and historically vulnerable transport corridors.
The incident, which occurred around 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday near the Nasarawan Doka area, was thwarted after troops received a distress call from the scene. A military source, speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), detailed the rapid sequence of events: “Upon receiving the alert, the troops immediately mobilised to the location. They engaged the armed criminals in a firefight, effectively neutralising the immediate threat to public safety.”
This highway has been a focal point for both military and police security operations due to its strategic importance and past security challenges. The successful foiling of this robbery underscores the ongoing efforts to secure key infrastructure and restore public confidence in inter-state travel.
During the engagement, one suspect, identified as Kabiru Zayyanu, was apprehended. He sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during the exchange and was subsequently evacuated to Doka General Hospital for urgent medical treatment and first aid. The arrest of a live suspect is a significant intelligence opportunity, as it allows security forces to investigate the gang’s networks, funding, and operational patterns.
“Other members of the criminal gang fled the scene under the superior firepower and response of the troops,” the source added. A hot pursuit was initiated, although no further contact was made with the fleeing suspects at that time. The military’s ability to respond rapidly to a distress call highlights improvements in coordination and intelligence-sharing mechanisms along the route.
Critical Outcome: Zero Casualties Among Civilians
A paramount success of the operation was that no commuters were killed, injured, or abducted. This stands in stark contrast to the devastating human and economic toll of successful highway robberies and kidnappings, which have previously plagued this route. The protection of civilian life and property is the central mandate of such security deployments.
The military source confirmed that the security situation in the area has been stabilized and remains calm, with troops maintaining a strong, visible presence and dominating the area to deter further criminal activity.
Next Steps and Public Appeal
Following investigation and medical stabilization, the arrested suspect, Kabiru Zayyanu, will be handed over to the relevant law enforcement agencies for prosecution. This process is crucial for demonstrating the rule of law and ensuring criminals are held accountable through the judicial system.
The army reiterated its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across its areas of operation. The source concluded with a vital appeal to the public: “We urge all citizens, especially commuters and communities along transport corridors, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to security forces promptly. Public cooperation is a force multiplier and essential for proactive security.”
This event serves as both a testament to the responsiveness of the troops and a reminder of the persistent security challenges on major highways. It highlights the continued need for sustained investment in intelligence, rapid response units, and community trust to ensure the safety of Nigeria’s critical infrastructure and its citizens.
Reported by Mohammad Tijjani for NAN. Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo.
