The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has taken approximately 300 persons into custody following a major security operation targeting identified crime flashpoints, shanties, scavenger locations and uncompleted buildings across Abuja. The operation, carried out on Saturday, September 19, 2026, forms part of the Command’s ongoing efforts to prevent criminal activities, disrupt suspected criminal hideouts […]
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has taken approximately 300 persons into custody following a major security operation targeting identified crime flashpoints, shanties, scavenger locations and uncompleted buildings across Abuja.
The operation, carried out on Saturday, September 19, 2026, forms part of the Command’s ongoing efforts to prevent criminal activities, disrupt suspected criminal hideouts and improve the safety of residents across the Federal Capital Territory.
Police Target Suspected Criminal Hideouts
According to the FCT Police Command, operatives conducted raids across several locations identified through intelligence and other security information as potential areas where criminal activities could take place.
The operation focused particularly on crime flashpoints, informal shanties and uncompleted buildings, some of which police said could be used as hideouts.
The Command said the approximately 300 people taken into custody are currently undergoing screening and profiling to determine their identities and whether they have any connection to criminal activities.
Knives, Toy Gun and Illicit Drugs Recovered
During the operation, police said several items were recovered from some of the locations that were raided.
The recovered items included knives, a toy gun, cannabis and other illicit drugs, according to the Command.
The police said the recovered items are part of the exhibits being examined as investigations continue.
Those Cleared Will Be Released
The FCT Police Command stressed that being taken into custody during the operation does not automatically mean that every person arrested will be prosecuted.
According to the police, individuals found to have committed offences will be appropriately charged to court after investigations, while those found to have no case to answer will be released following the completion of the screening process.
This distinction is important as the screening exercise is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding each person’s presence at the locations targeted during the raids.
Police Commissioner Vows to Sustain Operations
The FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, said the Command would continue with intelligence-led raids and proactive policing operations across the territory.
He said locations identified as potential hideouts for criminal activities would remain under security attention as the police work to prevent crime and protect residents.
The Commissioner also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information about suspicious activities and locations within their communities.
Warning Over Illicit Drug Abuse
The Command also warned young people and other residents about the dangers associated with the use and abuse of illicit drugs.
Police said substance abuse can impair judgement and expose individuals and communities to security risks. The Command encouraged people struggling with drug use to seek appropriate counselling and rehabilitation support.
Police Officers Warned Against Misconduct
The FCT Police Command also directed officers participating in the operations to conduct themselves professionally and within the law.
The Command warned that raids and arrests must not be used as opportunities for extortion, intimidation, harassment or unlawful demands for money.
According to the police, any officer found engaging in such misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action.
FCT Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant
The latest operation comes amid continued security efforts across Abuja, with police increasingly focusing on locations considered vulnerable to criminal activity.
The FCT Police Command said it would continue working to protect lives and property while encouraging residents to share credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying criminal activities and potential hideouts.
For now, the approximately 300 people arrested remain subject to screening and profiling. The police have said those found to have committed offences will face prosecution, while those cleared will be released.
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