The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has launched a widespread security operation targeting shanties, street beggars, illegal miners, and traffic offenders in Abuja.
Commissioner of Police Ajao Saka Adewale disclosed this on Tuesday after a high-level security meeting with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in Life Camp, Abuja.
As part of the ongoing “Operation Sweep,” authorities have:
Arrested 273 destitute persons for profiling at the Bwari center
Impounded 670 vehicles for offenses such as driving against traffic, using tinted windows, or having covered number plates
“These are life-threatening offenses. Anybody driving against traffic is on a suicide mission,” Adewale warned.
Key Focus Areas:
Shanties & Illegal Settlements: The minister has ordered the clearance of unauthorized structures, citing environmental and security risks.
Street Begging: Identified as a public nuisance, the police are removing beggars and destitute persons from public spaces.
Illegal Mining: All unauthorized mining sites within the FCT are to be shut down due to their serious security implications.
Unrecognized IDP Camps: Camps exploiting humanitarian crises will be dismantled and occupants relocated.
Traffic and Urban Safety:
The crackdown includes enforcement against vehicles with improper documentation.
Agencies like the NDLEA are working alongside the police to manage drug-related and other specialized offenses.
On Herders-Farmers Clashes & “One-Chance” Robberies:
The Gwagwalada conflict has been resolved with a signed peace accord among stakeholders.
Citizens are urged to board vehicles only at official bus stops to avoid falling victim to one-chance robberies.
Efforts are ongoing to improve street lighting and police visibility in key areas.
“We are not relenting. The Minister has given clear directives, and security agencies will act decisively,” CP Adewale assured.
