The Federal Capital Territory Police Command (FCT Command) has commenced an extensive intelligence‑driven operation aimed at rooting out criminals from the territory, targeting uncompleted buildings, known “black spots”, and hideouts across Abuja. (ICIR News)
According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, the effort will include night raids, stop‑and‑search patrols, and monitoring of abandoned structures to prevent them being used as bases for robbery, kidnapping and drug peddling. (The Sun Nigeria)
What Has Been Done
In early October, the Command ordered all Divisional Police Officers to intensify patrols and carry out thorough raids in uncompleted buildings and suspected hideouts after 6 pm. It reiterated a ban on “Baban Bola” scavenging activities, citing links to criminal networks. (ICIR News)
A previous operation covering January–February 2025 resulted in the arrest of some 300 suspects, including armed robbers, kidnappers and cultists, and the recovery of weapons and ammunition. (Vanguard News)
In a raid on September 8 2025, at least 71 suspects were arrested across multiple divisions including Gwagwalada, Nyanya, Karmo and Jikwoyi. Substances believed to be Indian hemp were recovered. (Daily Post)
Why This Matters
The operation signals a heightened focus by security authorities in the FCT to clamp down on emergent threats such as kidnapping, “one‑chance” robbery syndicates, illegal scavenging and vandalisation of infrastructure. By targeting areas previously used as hideouts, the Command aims to disrupt the operational bases of these criminal elements and restore public safety across the capital.
What to Expect
Residents have been urged to cooperate by providing information about suspicious activity, particularly around unfinished buildings and known hang‑out spots for criminals. The Command has also encouraged neighbourhood associations to ensure proper documentation of staff and artisans working on site. (ICIR News)
Authorities say they will continue deploying tactical teams and collaborating with community leaders to ensure that “no hiding place” remains for criminals in the FCT. (The Guardian)
