The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Taskforce on City Sanitation has launched a robust operation targeting criminal hotspots and “one chance” operators in Abuja, leading to several arrests and the impounding of over 30 vehicles.
The raids, conducted in areas such as Area 1, Apo Bridge, Berger Roundabout, and Banex Junction, aim to bolster security during the festive season. Speaking after the operation, Adamu Gwary, Director of the FCTA Security Services Department, emphasized the importance of sustaining the initiative to ensure the safety of residents.
“This exercise will last throughout the festive period till January. Criminal elements exploit any gaps, and we must remain vigilant,” Gwary said, represented by Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the Command and Control Centre.
Key Outcomes of the Operation:
- Vehicles Impounded: Over 30 vehicles allegedly used by "one chance" operators were seized by the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS).
- Beggars Arrested: Seven beggars violating the ban on street begging were apprehended, with efforts underway to rehabilitate or repatriate them.
- Impersonation Foiled: A suspect impersonating a police officer, carrying a locally fabricated knife, was arrested and handed over to the police for further investigation.
The Taskforce also focused on discouraging illegal motor parks and enforcing street begging bans. Efforts at the National Mosque significantly reduced the number of beggars from over 100 to just four, according to Mustapha Yunusa of the Social Development Secretariat.
Safety Advisory for Residents:
Gwary urged residents to remain vigilant, especially when commuting at night. "Take note of the vehicle’s color, make, and plate number. Share these details with someone before boarding," he advised.
The operation, directed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, seeks to destabilize criminal activities and ensure a safer environment for commuters in the capital city. Mrs. Deborah Osho, Head of DRTS Operations, affirmed the focus on evening and nighttime enforcement to curb “one chance” operations during peak hours.
“This proactive approach has made the city increasingly difficult for criminal syndicates to thrive,” Osho remarked.
