A senior officer in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore John Ijudigal has successfully foiled a robbery and kidnapping attempt by notorious criminals known as ‘one-chance’ operators in Abuja.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet in a statement revealed that the incident unfolded on February 14, 2024, along Accra Road, Wuse Zone 5, culminating in the apprehension of three suspects and the rescue of two kidnapped victims.
The incident transpired at approximately 7:28 pm when Air Commodore Ijudigal, while commuting home in his official vehicle, encountered a distressing scene involving an Abuja-painted taxi (Mazda 323, registration BWR 232 XB) speeding in reverse with frightened passengers inside seeking help. In pursuit of the taxi was a black Toyota Land Cruiser. Without hesitation, Air Commodore Ijudigal joined the chase, using his official vehicle to block the criminals’ escape route.
The ‘one-chance’ vehicle, in a state of panic, collided with Air Commodore Idjudigal’s official vehicle, resulting in significant damage to both cars. The impact caused the criminals’ vehicle to skid into a nearby garden. Unfazed by the collision, Air Commodore Ijudigal immediately exited his vehicle, chased one of the suspects who fled into a nearby bush, and, with the assistance of onlookers, apprehended the driver and two other suspects.
Two female victims were successfully rescued from the ordeal. Subsequently, Air Commodore Ijudigal promptly contacted a nearby police post and personally ensured that the three apprehended criminals were handed over to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Mr. Benneth Igweh, at his office.
The FCT Commissioner of Police commended Air Commodore Ijudigal for his bravery, acknowledging that his swift and decisive intervention not only prevented a potential tragedy but also contributed significantly to the apprehension of criminals posing a security risk to citizens in the FCT. The Commissioner lauded the senior officer’s actions as a demonstration of bravery and commitment to public service, reinstating confidence in the security forces.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, has expressed commendation for Air Commodore Ijudigal’s courageous and selfless service. Currently serving as the Deputy Director of Logistics at the Defence Headquarters, Air Commodore Ijudigal’s actions have been recognized as exemplary in the fight against criminal activities within the FCT.