By Amanabo Ocholi | The Bureau News
Armed kidnappers launched a daring midnight attack on the residence of a man identified simply as Waye in Jikwoyi, a suburb of Abuja, on Friday, September 19, 2025.
According to reports gathered by The Bureau News, the incident occurred around 1:00 a.m., when the assailants cut through the barbed wire fence and gained entry into the compound.
Dogs and Relatives Knocked Out with Chemical
Residents said the kidnappers sprayed a substance on two security dogs, rendering them unconscious. The attackers also forced open the windows of rooms where some relatives of the victim were staying and used the same chemical, knocking them out cold.
“They later broke the window to Waye’s room. But before they could carry out their mission, the neighbourhood became alert and the police sirens started blaring,” a neighbour told The Bureau News, requesting anonymity.
Gunfire and Chaos in the Neighbourhood
The kidnappers reportedly opened fire into the air and also shot at residents who came out to intervene. Witnesses said the gang was in contact with a leader they referred to as Commander, who instructed them in Hausa language to abduct one of Waye’s relatives when their initial attempt failed.
“They nearly shot one of our neighbours in the head,” another resident recounted.
Failed Abduction Linked to Recent Incidents
This latest incident comes just weeks after another botched kidnap attempt in Karu Extension, less than a kilometre from Waye’s compound.
Residents say the attacks have raised growing fears about the security situation in Abuja’s satellite towns.
Attempts to reach the Jikwoyi Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.
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