The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale has announced a major clampdown on shanties, beggars, illegal miners, and traffic offenders as part of ongoing security operations in Abuja.
Adewale, while briefing journalists after a security meeting with the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike at Life Camp on Tuesday, revealed that over 273 destitute persons had been arrested and taken to the Bwari Centre for profiling, while 670 vehicles were impounded for various traffic violations.
The FCT police chief stated that the the minister and service commanders had reviewed the security situation, noting the successes of the recent “Operation Sweep.”
“To the glory of God, the exercise has been very successful, and from the gains we have recorded, we have seen the need to continue,” Adewale said.
He explained key concerns, including the proliferation of shanties and the menace of beggars and destitute individuals across the city.
“The issue of shanties springing up everywhere in the FCT has been of concern to the Honourable Minister. We equally have the issue of beggars and destitute persons all over the city, which we are addressing.
“He has tasked the service commanders to rid the FCT streets of these miscreants who constitute a threat to the environment,” he said.
The police commissioner also raised the alarm over illegal mining activities at the nation’s capital, warning of their security implications.
“The issue of illegal mining springing up around the city has equally been of concern. You understand the security implications of this. The minister has directed that these illegal mining sites must be shut down,” he said.
Additionally, he disclosed that some individuals were taking advantage of humanitarian crises by setting up illegal Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
“Such camps are not recognised within the FCT. The places have been identified, and people will be profiled. If you have no reason to be in the FCT, we will relocate you to where you belong,” the Police Commissioner said.
Adewale also expressed concern over traffic-related crimes, particularly vehicles with covered number plates and drivers moving against traffic.
“These are life-threatening offenses. Anybody driving against traffic is on a suicide mission. There will be a total clampdown on these offenders, and they will be properly documented
“So many arrests were made within the period. As we speak, more than 273 destitute are in the Bwari centre undergoing profiling.
“Over 670 vehicles were impounded for offenses like improper documentation, tinted glasses, and covered number plates,” he said.
He clarified that different agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), were handling suspects, based on the nature of their offenses.
On the recent clashes between herders and farmers in Gwagwalada, Adewale assured that peace had been restored to the community.
“To God be the glory, that issue has been laid to rest. Stakeholders have signed a peace accord, and security agencies remain on ground to ensure no recurrence,” he said.
While responding to concerns about “one-chance” robberies, the police commissioner urged residents to board vehicles only at designated bus stops and in groups.
“We are increasing security visibility at bus stops. Citizens must be security-conscious. The Minister is also working on improving street lighting to enhance safety at night,” he said.
