In a major crackdown to rid the nation`s capital of criminal elements, operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have arrested about 300 suspects during coordinated raids on criminal flashpoints, shanties, and uncompleted buildings across Abuja.

The massive security operation, which took place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, was part of an ongoing proactive strategy to disrupt criminal networks and guarantee the safety of residents.

The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the breakthrough in a statement issued at the Command’s headquarters on Sunday.

According to Adeh, lethal weapons and narcotics were confiscated during the sweep.

“The operation, carried out across various locations, led to the raid of several identified criminal hideouts, with approximately 300 persons taken into custody for screening. Items recovered during the operation include knives, a toy gun, cannabis, and other illicit drugs,” the statement read.

The police image maker explained that the suspects are currently undergoing rigorous screening and profiling. She assured the public that while prima facie offenders will be swiftly arraigned in court, individuals with no case to answer will be released.

Reacting to the development, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, reaffirmed his administration`s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led raids across the territory, particularly in areas identified as vulnerability zones.

CP Sanusi also seized the opportunity to sound a note of warning to youths against the dangers of narcotics, linking substance abuse directly to the rise in violent crimes.

“Substance abuse can impair judgment, fuel violent and criminal behaviour, and expose individuals and communities to serious security risks,” the CP warned, urging those struggling with drug addiction to seek rehabilitation rather than turning to crime.

Crucially, the police boss issued a stern warning to his officers against professional misconduct during subsequent clampdowns. He stressed that the command would show zero tolerance for extortion, harassment, or the intimidation of innocent citizens.

“Any officer found engaging in such misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action,” Sanusi cautioned.

The Command urged FCT residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements or criminal hideouts through its emergency line: 08032003913.