By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has raised concerns over the growing use of beggars and destitute persons by criminal networks for the movement of illicit drugs across Abuja.
The Secretary of the FCT Command and Control Centre, Peter Olumuji, disclosed this on Monday during the ongoing enforcement operation tagged Operation Sweep, aimed at addressing street begging and improving security within the capital city.
According to Olumuji, intelligence reports indicate that some vulnerable persons, including physically challenged individuals, are being exploited by criminal elements to transport illegal substances, particularly during nighttime operations.
“The sad thing is that, as vulnerable as they have become, they have also become a useful tool in the hands of criminal elements. From intelligence we have gathered over time, they use them to courier illicit drugs, especially at night,” he said.
He explained that the tactic was intended to avoid suspicion from security operatives, noting that some suspects involved in street begging were also allegedly being used as informants by criminal groups.
Olumuji further stated that enforcement teams had occasionally faced resistance during raids, with some suspects reportedly attacking officials using walking aids and other mobility devices.
The Head of FCT Enforcement, Ulkacha Adebayo, said 54 persons, including 45 adults and nine children, were evacuated during Monday’s exercise.
She added that about 835 persons had been removed from the streets over the past three months, bringing the total number evacuated under the operation to approximately 889.
According to Adebayo, those evacuated are being profiled and transferred to government rehabilitation centres where they will receive welfare support and vocational training.
The operation is currently being carried out in areas including Maitama, Asokoro, Garki, Wuse, and Gwarinpa under the directive of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
