ABUJA – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered a comprehensive security reinforcement across the nation’s capital, authorizing the immediate deployment of a joint military and police task force to bolster surveillance and combat rising criminal activities.
The operation, which includes personnel from the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies, is designed to intensify patrols and strengthen security at all border points and entryways into the FCT.
Addressing the newly formed “Operation Sweep” squad on Tuesday, FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, emphasized that the initiative aims to foster operational synergy and decisively eliminate crime, particularly as the yuletide season approaches.
CP Dantawaye confirmed that Minister Wike has provided full logistical support for the mission, stating: “The FCT minister has given complete support, especially in terms of logistics for this operation. I am sure that by the time we’ll be leaving here later, the funds for fueling, servicing of vehicles, and even allowances for the men will have dropped into an account that we can access.”
The Police Commissioner, who was joined by other heads of security agencies, also disclosed that the Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police have granted formal approval for the operation, which will focus on areas identified as vulnerable to kidnapping and banditry.
On the issue of street begging, CP Dantawaye revealed that security agencies are collaborating with relevant FCTA departments to address the menace, noting that some criminals often disguise themselves as beggars.
“We’re going to profile them and see those we will take off the streets that are criminally minded, even if they claim they are beggars,” he said, adding that legal procedures are being finalized to support the evacuation of street beggars from the city.
