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From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested more than 300 suspects in a weekend crackdown on identified crime black spots and suspected criminal hideouts across Abuja and its environs.
The raids, which targeted crime flashpoints, shanties and uncompleted buildings, also led to the recovery of knives, a toy gun, cannabis and other suspected illicit drugs.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, said the operation was part of efforts to prevent crime, disrupt criminal activities and improve security across the territory.
He said the more than 300 persons arrested were being screened and profiled to determine those with cases to answer.
“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,” Sanusi said.
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The commissioner said intelligence-led raids would continue across the FCT, particularly in locations identified as possible hideouts for criminal elements.
He also warned youths and other residents against the use and abuse of illicit drugs, saying substance abuse could impair judgment, contribute to violent or criminal behaviour and expose individuals and communities to security risks.
Sanusi urged persons struggling with drug abuse to seek counselling and rehabilitation rather than allow substance dependence to draw them into criminal activities.
The police chief also cautioned officers involved in the operations against exploiting the raids to extort or harass residents. He warned that arrests must not become an avenue for “extortion, intimidation, harassment or unlawful demands for money”, adding that officers found engaging in such misconduct would face disciplinary action.
Sanusi assured residents that the command would continue its efforts to protect lives and property and urged members of the public to provide timely information on suspicious activities and suspected criminal hideouts.
