By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has detained approximately 300 persons for screening following a security operation carried out at locations identified as potential crime centres across Abuja.

The operation, conducted on Saturday, September 19, 2026, reportedly covered shanties, uncompleted buildings and other locations suspected of being used as hideouts by criminals.

The command said the exercise was aimed at preventing criminal activities, disrupting the operations of suspected offenders and strengthening security across the nation’s capital.

During the operation, police officers recovered several items, including knives, a toy firearm, cannabis and other substances suspected to be illicit drugs.

According to the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, the individuals arrested are being screened and profiled to establish whether they have links to criminal activities.

The command explained that anyone found to have committed an offence would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while those cleared of any wrongdoing would be released after the screening process.

The FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Sanusi, said the command would continue with intelligence-driven raids and proactive policing, particularly in areas identified as possible criminal hideouts.

Sanusi also warned residents, particularly youths, about the dangers associated with illicit drug use. He noted that substance abuse can affect judgment and potentially contribute to violent or criminal behaviour.

He advised individuals struggling with drug-related problems to seek counselling and rehabilitation instead of allowing substance abuse to expose them or their communities to security threats.

The commissioner further instructed police personnel involved in the operations to maintain professionalism and operate strictly within the law.

He warned that officers must not use arrests or raids as opportunities to extort, intimidate or harass members of the public. According to him, any officer found demanding money unlawfully or engaging in other misconduct would face disciplinary measures.

The FCT Police Command subsequently appealed to residents to provide credible and timely information about suspicious activities and locations believed to be used as criminal hideouts.