Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command have arrested approximately 300 people during raids on identified crime hotspots, shanties and incomplete buildings across the FCT.
The operation was carried out on Saturday, September 19, 2026, as part of efforts to prevent crime, disrupt criminal activities and improve security across the territory.
The command disclosed this in a statement issued by its Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, and shared on its X account on Sunday.
Police recover weapons, drugs
According to the command, the operation targeted several locations identified as potential hideouts for criminals.
About 300 people were taken into custody for screening and profiling.
Police said items recovered included knives, a toy gun, cannabis and other substances suspected to be illicit drugs.
Adeh said those arrested were undergoing what she described as “thorough screening and profiling”.
She added that suspects found to have committed offences would be charged to court, while those with no case to answer would be released after the screening process.
“The operation, carried out across various locations, led to the raid of several identified criminal hideouts, with approximately 300 persons taken into custody for screening,” the statement said.
Police warn against misconduct
The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Ahmed Sanusi, said the command would continue with intelligence-led raids and proactive policing, particularly in areas identified as potential criminal hideouts.
He also urged young people and other residents to avoid drug abuse, warning that substance abuse could contribute to violent and criminal behaviour.
Sanusi advised people struggling with drug use to seek counselling and rehabilitation support.
The police commissioner also warned officers involved in the raids against misconduct.
He said arrests and searches must not be used as opportunities for extortion, intimidation, harassment or unlawful demands for money.
According to him, any police officer found engaging in such conduct would face appropriate disciplinary action.
The command urged residents to continue providing credible information about suspicious activities and suspected criminal hideouts.
It also provided an emergency contact line, 08032003913, for members of the public to report security concerns.