By Emmanuel Ogbodo
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has dismantled a major criminal cartel responsible for stealing manhole covers and vandalizing public infrastructure in Abuja.
Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu led the crackdown through “Operation Sweep,” a multi-agency task force launched on January 16, 2025.
The operation followed a directive from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to shut down all scrap yards in the territory for two weeks.
Raids across Dei Dei, Kabusa, Zuba, Mpape, Jabi, Nyanya, Apo, and Gwarinpa led to the arrest of over 30 suspects, with 16 already charged.
Authorities recovered 115 manhole covers, five motorcycles, and stolen public assets valued at over N1 billion.
Disu also mandated that all Pantaker operators register with the Abuja Markets Management Limited, while scavenging remains banned in the city.
In a related sweep, security agents arrested 50 more suspects and recovered 25 additional manhole covers, three vehicles, and other stolen infrastructure across Kabusa, Garki, Mabushi, and Wuse.
The police commissioner reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on vandalism and urged residents to safeguard public infrastructure and report suspicious activities.
