348 suspected criminals have been taken into custody by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command in the nation’s capital.
The suspects were arrested when operatives of the command raided 17 black spots.
The areas identified and raided are: Apo-Dutse Panteka, Diplomatic Zone, New PDP Secretariat, Kabusa Panteka, Ajakaita (Tungan-Maje), Abuja-Kaduna Road, Jabi Panteka, Apo-Waru Panteka, Area 1 (Monkey Village), and Durumi Village.
Others are Gwarimpa, Angwan Tivi, Mpape (Mashafa and Shishinpe villages), Durumi III (Burukutu Garden), Mabushi (Gishiri Village), Kubwa (by Pipeline and NEPA Road), and Maitama (under the Transcorp Bridge).
Out of the 348, the police said 320 suspects have been prosecuted and charged to the court.
According to a statement on Tuesday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josphine Adeh, 11 firearms were also recovered, thereby eliminating dangerous weapons from circulation.
Adeh said: “As part of its unwavering efforts to combat criminal activities and protect public and private infrastructure within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the FCT Police Command has carried out a series of strategic raids targeting identified black spots across the territory.
“Why Police carry out daily raids: daily raids are critical to maintaining law and order in the FCT. These proactive operations are aimed at: Preventing Crime: Targeting criminal black spots to deter and prevent crimes before they occur, ensuring a safer environment for residents. Protecting Infrastructure: disrupting activities that lead to the theft and vandalism of public infrastructure such as manhole covers, streetlights, and power cables. Curtailing Drug Abuse and Trafficking: Confiscating illegal drugs to disrupt supply chains and protect communities from the harmful effects of narcotics.
“Enforcing the Law: demonstrating the police’s commitment to upholding the law and ensuring criminals are held accountable.
“The sustained efforts of the FCT Police Command have yielded remarkable results, including 348 suspects arrested for various criminal activities. 320 suspects were prosecuted and charged to court. Seizure of 10 trucks loaded with vandalized metals, disrupting the market for stolen items. Recovery of 26 manhole covers and 20 solar/street light poles, ensuring the restoration of critical public infrastructure. Confiscation of large quantities of AEDC armored cables, preventing further vandalism. Seizure of substantial quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp and assorted hard drugs, reducing drug-related crimes and recovery of 11 firearms, eliminating dangerous weapons from circulation.
“These successes underscore the importance of sustained raids in creating a crime-free and secure environment for all FCT residents.
“The FCT Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We urge the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the police command control room via: 08061581938, 08032003913, 08028940883, 07057337653. Complaint Response Unit: 08107314192, PCB: 09022222352.
“The Command appreciates the continued cooperation and support of residents and stakeholders as we work together to maintain peace and order across the Federal Capital Territory.”
