Residents of Kungaboku and Paze in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are living in fear after suspected bandits allegedly sent a letter threatening coordinated attacks.

The letter, reportedly discovered in a pupil’s school bag at a private school in Paze, warned of assaults to avenge the killing of a bandit commander.

The threat comes just days after troops of the 7 Guards Battalion, working with police and vigilantes, rescued 19 kidnapped victims from Gidan Dogo in Bwari Area Council.

During that operation, soldiers killed one bandit and recovered firearms, while others escaped with injuries.

Police interrogated the pupil, parents, and teachers before releasing them. News of the threat quickly spread across social media and community groups, prompting many residents to flee their homes.

A day before the letter surfaced, suspected bandits attacked a Fulani settlement in Kungaboku, abducted three women, and demanded ₦70 million ransom.

The area has been attacked before, including the October 2025 killing of veterinary doctor Dr. Ifeanyi Ogbu, who was abducted with his children.

On March 5, bandits kidnapped retired military officer Bankole Ganiyu and three children, while his wife and other children escaped.

In recent weeks, at least 12 people have been abducted from Paze and Kungaboku, including women and children.

Victims included four children of a pastor and the wife and sister of a vigilante leader. In one case, attackers left behind a baby.

Police Response And Community Measures

To calm fears, the Byazhin Divisional Police Officer met with residents at the palace of Kungaboku’s community head, Chief Ishaya Jagaba.

Police confirmed the letter but assured residents of proactive patrols. They advised vigilance, profiling of new residents, and monitoring of motorcyclists and scavengers who may act as informants.

Plans for a police post in Kungaboku were discussed, with the DPO urging community support. He promised regular day-and-night patrols to prevent attacks.

Despite assurances, fear remains high, with deserted homes and anxious families waiting to see if security measures will hold.

Community leaders urged residents not to panic but to cooperate with security agencies to deter further violence.