FCT police raid leads to 300 arrests, weapons, drug seizures

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested over 300 suspected criminals following a raid on identified black spots and criminal hideouts in the nation’s capital and its surroundings.

The raid, according to Police Commissioner Ahmed Sanusi, focused on crime flashpoints, shanties and uncompleted buildings and led to the recovery of knives, a toy gun, cannabis and other illicit drugs.

Sanusi said the operation, which is ongoing, is part of the Command’s efforts to prevent crime, disrupt criminal activities and enhance the safety and security of residents.

The commissioner said that the over 300 suspects arrested during the operation conducted over the weekend across various locations in the FCT were taken into custody for screening.

He said: “The suspects are currently undergoing thorough screening and profiling. Those found to have committed offences will be appropriately charged to court in accordance with the law, while persons found to have no case to answer will be released after due screening.”

He reiterated that the Command will continue to sustain intelligence-led raids and proactive policing operations across the territory, particularly at locations identified as potential hideouts for criminals.

The commissioner, while cautioning youths and other residents against the use and abuse of illicit drugs, noted that substance abuse can impair judgement, fuel violent and criminal behaviour, and expose individuals and communities to serious security risks.

He urged anyone struggling with drug use to seek appropriate counselling and rehabilitation support rather than allowing substance abuse to lead them into criminal activities.

The Commissioner of Police equally charged police officers participating in such operations to conduct themselves professionally and in strict accordance with the law. He warned officers against using raids or arrests as an avenue for extortion, intimidation, harassment or unlawful demands for money, stressing that any officer found engaging in such misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action.

He assured residents of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, just as he called on residents to continue providing credible and timely information on suspicious activities and criminal hideouts within their communities.

“For emergencies or to provide useful security information, members of the public are encouraged to contact the FCT Police Command through the emergency line 08032003913.”