By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
In a bold declaration to protect lives and property in the nation’s capital, the Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), CP Ajoa Saka Adewale, has vowed to sustain a relentless offensive against criminal elements hiding within Abuja and its surrounding communities.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing at the FCT Police Command Headquarters on Friday, CP Adewale disclosed that the command had recorded significant breakthroughs in crime-fighting between May and June 2025, with dozens of arrests and the recovery of illegal arms, vehicles, and stolen property.
“We’re not waiting for criminals to strike—we’re taking the fight directly to them,” he said. “Our residents deserve to go about their daily lives in peace, and we will not allow any person or group to threaten that.”
According to him, within the two-month period, 17 suspected kidnappers were arrested and three killed in gun battles during attempted abductions across areas including Apo-Waru, Byazhin, Karshi, Kawu-Bwari, and Gidan Forest. The police also foiled five armed robbery attacks, arresting six suspects in Apo and Kubwa.
Adewale stated that operatives recovered a wide cache of weapons during operations, including three AK-47 rifles with magazines, a pump-action shotgun, locally made pistols, and over 30 rounds of live ammunition. Other items recovered include walkie-talkies, a sharp spear, military camouflage, and stolen electronics and vehicles.
Beyond kidnapping and armed robbery, the command also cracked down on child trafficking, illegal firearms possession, and fraud. In total, 8 suspects were arrested for trafficking-related offenses, with three trafficked children and eight abandoned babies rescued and handed over to social welfare officials.
“The disturbing cases of child trafficking and rape remain a top concern,” Adewale noted. “Twelve rape cases were reported, ten suspects arrested, and four cases are still under investigation. We will ensure justice is served.”
He also revealed the arrest of scrap dealers who were found to be in possession of dismantled stolen vehicles, linking them to four separate car theft cases.
The Commissioner emphasized that the command’s operations are driven by intelligence-led policing, enhanced surveillance, and community collaboration. He unveiled plans to deepen public engagement and increase visibility patrols across vulnerable areas.
“We’re building on the gains we have made. Our next phase includes community policing forums, public enlightenment campaigns, and precision strikes on criminal hideouts. This city will not be allowed to fall into the hands of lawbreakers,” he said.
He called on FCT residents to support the police by volunteering useful information and remaining vigilant.
The series of arrests and recoveries reflect the enormity of the security challenge in the FCT, but also underscore the police command’s determination to reclaim every inch of the territory from criminal elements.