- 21 Stolen Vehicles Recovered: A major blow to car theft rings operating in the FCT.
- Over 1,600 Suspects Arrested: A massive dragnet targeting various criminal activities.
- Focus on Hotspots: Intelligence-led raids targeting known areas of criminal activity.
- Seizure of Illicit Drugs: Large quantities of cannabis, methamphetamine, and other dangerous substances taken off the streets.
FCT Police Smash Car Theft Ring, Net Over 1,600 Criminals
The FCT Police Command is making waves! They’ve just announced the recovery of 21 stolen vehicles and the arrest of a whopping 1,611 suspects involved in everything from jacking cars to pushing drugs. Commissioner of Police (CP) Ajao S. Adewale made the big reveal, highlighting the success of their proactive, intelligence-driven raids across the FCT’s most notorious hotspots.
Key Achievements in April 2025
CP Adewale didn’t hold back, rattling off the impressive stats from April 2025:
- 21 suspected stolen vehicles found: These guys were busy!
- 15 arrested for vehicle theft: The car theft gang is feeling the heat.
- 1,611 suspects caught in coordinated raids: No safe haven for criminals in Abuja.
- Massive drug bust: They seized loads of cannabis, methamphetamine, codeine, Tramadol, and other illegal drugs.
Vehicles Returned to Owners
The best part? Six of the recovered vehicles have already been returned to their rightful owners. The CP paraded 13 of the recovered vehicles during the press briefing, a clear message to criminals: we’re coming for you!
Call for Citizen Cooperation
CP Adewale is urging everyone to get involved, asking residents to share timely information with law enforcement. He emphasized the Command’s unwavering commitment to keeping the FCT safe for everyone.
Notable Arrests and Recoveries: A Detailed Look
Let’s dive into some specific cases that showcase the Police’s effectiveness:
April 11: Stolen Toyota Camry Recovered
A Toyota Camry, stolen from the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission, was recovered. A suspect named Hassan Bukar was arrested, carrying a set of master keys – not a good look!
April 10: Mechanic Busted for Car Theft
A Toyota Camry 2011, entrusted to a mechanic, was sold without permission. The vehicle was tracked down in Gwarinpa, and one suspect was arrested. The dodgy mechanic is still on the run.
March 4: Ministry Vehicle Recovered in Kaduna
An official Hilux belonging to the Ministry of Regional Development was traced all the way to Kaduna. The driver was trying to sell it but was caught red-handed.
April 28: Luxury Car Intercepted
A stolen Mercedes Benz 4matic E-400 was intercepted in Life Camp while someone was trying to sell it. Five suspects were arrested, and the car was traced back to its owner in Lagos.
April 30 – May 1: Massive Joint Operation
In a joint effort involving the Police, Army, and local vigilantes, a staggering 1,488 suspects were arrested in raids across FCT blackspots. The loot recovered included:
- Large quantities of hard drugs
- 149 mobile phones
- 10 tablets
- 14 laptops
- 19 power banks
- 10 POS machines
- 15 motorcycles
- 2 generators
- 109 ATM cards
- Various sharp objects used as weapons
Zero Tolerance for Crime
CP Adewale made it clear: the Command has zero tolerance for crime. All suspects will be prosecuted as soon as investigations are wrapped up. He also appealed to citizens to keep providing the Police with information to boost public safety.
FCT: A Growing Metropolis, A Growing Need for Security
Abuja, as the capital of Nigeria, has experienced rapid growth in recent years. This growth brings both opportunities and challenges, including the need to address crime and maintain security. The FCT Police Command’s recent operations demonstrate their commitment to meeting these challenges head-on. The city’s population is estimated to be well over six million. Keeping such a massive area safe is no easy task.
The Importance of Community Policing
The success of the FCT Police Command relies heavily on the support and cooperation of the community. By working together, residents and law enforcement can create a safer environment for everyone. Reporting suspicious activity and providing information to the police are crucial steps in preventing crime. Community policing initiatives, such as neighborhood watch programs, can also play a significant role in enhancing security.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Fight Against Crime
The FCT Police Command’s recent achievements are a positive step forward, but the fight against crime is an ongoing battle. Sustained efforts, including proactive policing, community engagement, and the use of technology, are essential to maintain the momentum and create a safer FCT for all its residents.