The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a major enforcement offensive against scrap and “pantaker” markets across Abuja, following a surge in theft and vandalism targeting newly installed solar-powered streetlights and other critical public infrastructure.
The operation, spearheaded by the Operation Sweep Joint Task Force, is focusing on markets suspected of being receiving points for stolen government property—including solar streetlight batteries, armoured cables, and manhole covers.
Director of the FCTA Security Services Department, Adamu Gwary, disclosed the move during an inspection tour of the International Scrap Market, Apo, and the Jabi Pantaker Market on Wednesday. He was represented by the Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, Dr. Peter Olumuji.
Olumuji explained that while significant gains had been made in curbing vandalism over the past year, a fresh wave of thefts had forced the administration to tighten surveillance.
“The Honourable Minister has continued the installation of solar streetlights across the FCT. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous individuals have been removing batteries from these facilities,” Olumuji stated. “We cannot allow this to continue, which is why we have intensified monitoring of pantaker markets.”
He emphasised that the crackdown is not only about arrests but also about sensitisation. Market leaders and traders have been warned against accepting stolen public assets, with a clear message: “If such items are found in any market, the leadership and shop owners will be held accountable.”
During the inspection, the task force verified the documents of a vehicle being dismantled for parts, confirming it was legitimately acquired. Olumuji said the exercise sent a strong signal that “there is no hiding place for criminal elements” in the FCT.
In a recent incident, operatives intercepted a vehicle loaded with suspected stolen armoured cables. The occupants attempted to flee but crashed into a ditch and escaped on foot. The vehicle and items were recovered and handed to the police for investigation.
Market Leaders Pledge Cooperation
Responding to the enforcement drive, the Vice Chairman of the Apo Pantaker Market, Hassan Mohammed, said the market’s own task force and intelligence unit routinely verify ownership documents for items brought in.
“We do not tolerate government property here,” Mohammed insisted. “Prohibited items are displayed at the entrance, and our traders are regularly sensitised on the consequences of handling stolen goods.”
The FCTA has assured residents that the operation will be sustained across the territory to protect public infrastructure and maintain the security gains achieved in recent months.
