The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has dismissed reports of an alleged kidnapping incident at Phase 1 Primary School, Gbagalape, Abuja, describing the claim as a false alarm.
The Command said investigations conducted after the incident found no evidence of any abduction, suspect or victim within the school premises or surrounding areas.
FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, explained that officers attached to the Nyanya Division received a distress call at about 10:30 a.m. on Thursday alleging that kidnappers had invaded the school.
According to her, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Nyanya Division immediately deployed officers and surveillance teams to the scene to assess the situation and ensure the safety of pupils and staff.
Adeh said preliminary findings revealed that some pupils suddenly began shouting “kidnappers” and ran out of the school premises, creating panic among teachers, parents and members of the surrounding community.
She noted that security operatives swiftly cordoned off the school and conducted an extensive search of the premises.
“Following extensive search and questioning of persons within and around the school premises, no kidnapping incident was established, no suspect was sighted, and no victim was identified,” she stated.
The police spokesperson added that officers also searched nearby hills, boundaries and adjoining areas while precautionary visits were made to neighbouring schools as part of security measures.
She urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating fear and unnecessary tension within communities.
“The Command therefore urges members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension within communities,” Adeh said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police for the FCT, Ahmed Sanusi, encouraged residents to promptly report suspicious activities and emergencies to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency response channels.
The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and maintaining security across the Federal Capital Territory.
