••••New Initiative Targets Criminal Hideouts and Aims to Reclaim Abuja’s Safety.
By John Audu,Abuja.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced the formation of a Special Task Force dedicated to eradicating criminal activities in unfinished structures and abandoned plots throughout Abuja. This initiative, disclosed by Mr. Adamu Gwary, Director of the Department of Security Services, FCT Administration, was shared during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday.
Mr. Gwary explained that the task force aims to dismantle the networks of vandals targeting government assets and infrastructure. The FCT Security Committee has identified these neglected areas as significant havens for criminal activities. “The Commissioner of Police in the FCT has been mandated to collaborate with his colleagues to establish a team to tackle this issue,” Gwary stated.
A financial plan for the operation has been submitted to the minister, covering strategic points like Pantaker markets and other spots flagged in intelligence reports as criminal hideouts. “In the coming weeks, there will be concerted efforts to clear all criminal hideouts, including uncompleted buildings and abandoned plots,” assured Gwary, emphasizing the goal of depriving criminals of safe spaces and enhancing resident safety.
In tandem with these security measures, the FCTA Land Department is conducting a census of undeveloped plots, following the minister’s directive. Minister Wike has warned landowners to develop their properties or face revocation of their allocations. “This measure will significantly address security issues linked to undeveloped plots and their misuse as hideouts for criminals,” Gwary noted.
Additionally, the minister has instructed the acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to devise a plan to secure under-bridge areas across the FCT. “The FCDA has been tasked with creating a comprehensive proposal to deny miscreants access to these locations,” Gwary added.
This initiative is part of Minister Wike’s broader strategy to bolster security and ensure a safer living environment for Abuja’s residents.
