By: Zagazola Makama
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities, arresting 17 suspected drug peddlers, a notorious car thief, and an armed suspect in separate sting operations across Abuja. The successful raids, conducted by multiple police divisions, have dealt a significant blow to criminal networks operating within the nation’s capital.
In a decisive move against the city’s rising drug menace, operatives from the Anti-Narcotic Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Maitama, alongside officers from Pegi Divisions, launched meticulously coordinated raids on notorious drug hideouts, abandoned buildings, and black spots known for illicit activities.
Seventeen suspects were rounded up, and a substantial cache of narcotics—including dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, hard drugs, 24 lighters, and scissors—was confiscated. The police confirmed that the suspects are currently undergoing intensive interrogation, with those found culpable set to face the full wrath of the law.
In a separate incident, police operatives arrested a highly notorious car thief, Ibrahim Suleiman, 36, from Falele Village, Lokoja, Kogi State, as he attempted to steal a Toyota Sienna Space Bus during Juma’at prayers at Wuse Zone 3 Mosque.
Eyewitnesses revealed that enraged worshippers nearly lynched Suleiman before police officers from Wuse Division intervened, rescuing him from the mob.
Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to his involvement in multiple car thefts across Kogi and the FCT. Investigations further uncovered that Suleiman had previously been apprehended in connection with a daring robbery at First Bank in Abaji on June 13, 2024. At that time, he was arrested by the then Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abaji, CSP Alkali Lamido, in Gegu Community, Kogi State.
Further intelligence led to the discovery of seven master keys, two mobile phones, a pair of glasses, and a stolen Peugeot 406 Saloon Car (registration number: KAB 480 AA, dark ash in color). Despite previous arrests and court appearances, Suleiman had managed to evade long-term detention, only to continue his criminal exploits. He is now in the custody of the Anti-Violent Crime Section of SCID, where a fresh investigation is underway.
In another major breakthrough, operatives from Jabi Division arrested one Sadiq Abubakar Walama, 36, of Fafu Estate, Idu Yard, for unlawful possession of an AK-47 rifle magazine loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition.
Security sources disclosed that Walama was intercepted after exhibiting suspicious behavior. A subsequent search revealed not only the ammunition but also a document bearing a military passport photograph, raising concerns about his potential involvement in organized crime or insurgent activities.
The suspect is currently undergoing rigorous interrogation as authorities work to uncover possible links to arms trafficking networks.
Amid the series of law enforcement successes, tragedy struck on Friday evening at Sun City Traffic Light, where a horrific accident claimed three lives.
At approximately 6:20 p.m., a Hayab truck (registration number: Lagos FST 585 XY), belonging to Sany Company, lost control and plowed into pedestrians attempting to cross the road.
Five individuals sustained severe injuries and were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi. Sadly, three of them succumbed to their injuries, while two others remain in critical condition. The truck has been impounded as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
In response to these incidents, the FCT Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety. The authorities urge residents to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities, and cooperate with security forces in their ongoing efforts to rid Abuja of crime.
The recent wave of arrests signals a strong warning to criminal elements that the law enforcement agencies remain steadfast in their mission to protect lives and property.
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