The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious criminal cartel responsible for stealing manhole covers and vandalizing public infrastructure across Abuja.
The operation, led by Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, was conducted under the banner of “Operation Sweep”, a multi-agency task force launched on January 16, 2025. This crackdown followed a directive from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who ordered the closure of all scrap yards in the territory for two weeks to curb rising cases of infrastructure theft.
During coordinated raids across multiple locations—including Dei Dei, Kabusa, Zuba, Mpape, Jabi, Nyanya, Apo, and Gwarinpa—security operatives arrested over 30 suspects, with 16 already facing charges in court.
Authorities also recovered 115 stolen manhole covers, five motorcycles, and various public assets valued at over ₦1 billion.
In a subsequent sweep targeting areas such as Kabusa, Garki, Mabushi, and Wuse, security agents apprehended 50 more suspects and confiscated an additional 25 manhole covers, three vehicles, and other stolen infrastructure
To prevent further vandalism, Commissioner Disu mandated that all Pantaker (scrap metal) operators must register with the Abuja Markets Management Limited. Additionally, scavenging remains strictly prohibited in the city.
Police Reaffirm Zero Tolerance for Vandalism
Reiterating the police command’s zero-tolerance stance on infrastructure vandalism, Disu urged Abuja residents to take an active role in protecting public property. He encouraged prompt reporting of suspicious activities to aid law enforcement efforts in safeguarding the capital’s infrastructure.
The FCT Police Command remains committed to ensuring security and stability in the region, with Operation Sweep continuing its mission to crack down on criminal activities affecting public services and infrastructure.
