The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has paraded 31 suspects involved in vandalism and theft of public infrastructure worth over N1 billion.
The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, disclosed this during a media briefing in Abuja, where he reiterated the force’s commitment to ensuring security in the capital. 
He confirmed that 16 of the suspects have been arraigned in court on charges of criminal conspiracy and mischief for damaging roads, electrical installations, and navigable channels.
Meanwhile, the ongoing operation has led to the recovery of stolen materials, including 115 manhole covers, industrial scaffolding, armored cables, and security doors.
During the parade of suspects, Disu emphasized that the crackdown, known as Operation Sweep, has been instrumental in curbing the activities of criminals dealing in stolen public property.
“The ongoing intensive enforcement operation, which commenced on January 16, has been conducted daily, both day and night,” he stated.
Additionally, raids have been carried out at major scrap markets in Dei-Dei, Kabusa, Zuba, Mpape, Jabi, and Nyanya, leading to the recovery of more stolen items, including 29 solar batteries, fiber optic cables, and 75 bags of cement.
In response, the Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML) has mandated all partaker market operators to undergo profiling and registration to prevent illegal transactions.
Furthermore, the FCT Police Command’s parade of suspects aligns with the zero-tolerance policy of the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, on crime and vandalism.
Disu acknowledged the collaborative efforts of other security agencies, which have strengthened the impact of Operation Sweep.
“This collective effort is crucial in tackling the persistent problem of vandalism in the FCT,” he reiterated.
The command also warned that scavenging activities remain strictly prohibited, stressing that violators will be prosecuted.
The public has been urged to report any suspicious activities to security agencies to help maintain law and order in the city.
The heightened security measures come after the FCT Minister’s continuous support for law enforcement.
In December 2024, he donated 50 operational vehicles to security agencies in Abuja to enhance their ability to combat crime.
A similar donation was made in July 2024, demonstrating his commitment to making Abuja safer.
As Operation Sweep continues to yield results, residents are hopeful that the crackdown will create a more secure environment and deter criminal elements from further acts of vandalism and theft.
