The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has instructed security agencies to enhance surveillance and reinforce security operations throughout Abuja as part of renewed efforts to tackle criminal activity within the territory.
During the official relaunch of “Operation Sweep” on Tuesday, Miller Dantawaye, FCT commissioner of police, said the minister had supplied the necessary logistics and operational backing for the initiative.
According to Dantawaye, the operation is being executed by a combined security formation involving the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS) and other agencies stationed at key points across the capital.
The police commissioner said the team has been mandated to step up preventive efforts against kidnappings, banditry, and other forms of crime, particularly as the festive season approaches.
He noted that service chiefs and the inspector-general of police (IGP) had also given full approval for the renewed operation.
“The FCT minister, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, has given complete support, especially in terms of logistics for this operation,” Dantawaye said.
“By the time we leave here today, the funds for fuelling and servicing of vehicles, as well as allowances for personnel, will have dropped into an account we can access.”
Dantawaye added that the renewed operation will also target individuals roaming the city under the pretext of begging, explaining that some of them have been linked to criminal activity.
“We know that amongst the people who claim to be beggars, some are not exactly beggars. Most come with criminal intent,” he said.
“We are going to profile them and take off the streets those who are criminally minded, even if they claim to be beggars.”
He said the police will coordinate with relevant bodies, including the Abuja environmental protection board (AEPB), to determine the lawful measures needed to regulate street begging and enhance overall safety in the capital.