By Omoyeni Ojeifo
Following a viral video alleging a robbery near Unity Fountain in Maitama, Abuja, the FCT Police Command raided criminal flashpoints in the area and arrested 70 suspects.
The operation was launched under the direct order of FCT Police Commissioner Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi to thoroughly clear identified blackspots.
The command’s spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh, in a video on her social media platforms, obtained by PerSecondNews on Monday, explained that the police responded to the viral video after a resident alleged on Instagram that persons operating around Unity Fountain, Maitama, robbed him of his gold chain.
According to Adeh, the Command listened to the concern raised by the resident and, following the directive of the Commissioner of Police, immediately commenced raids around the identified flashpoints in Unity Fountain and the wider Maitama area.
“The police operatives attached to Maitama Division conducted coordinated raids across identified criminal flashpoints, leading to the arrest of 70 suspects.”
“Following preliminary screening and due process, 30 of the suspects were screened and released, while 40 suspects were retained in custody for further investigation,” the Command stated.
Adeh disclosed that the resident who made the viral video was invited by the police to identify some of the suspects arrested during the operation.
“The victim was able to positively identify two of the suspects as persons he recognised from the incident.”
“The identified suspects, alongside other persons retained in custody, are currently in custody, while investigations are being expanded to identify and apprehend any other persons who may be connected to the offence,” the command stated.
According to Adeh, preliminary investigations also revealed information from some of the minors arrested during the operation concerning the alleged activities in the area.
During interrogation, the minors revealed that some persons were allegedly sending them to commit crimes against unsuspecting residents of the FCT.
Adeh said the minors allegedly disguise themselves as beggars and target motorists, with some reportedly snatching jewellery and phones when victims wind down their vehicle windows.
Adeh further disclosed that some of the suspects allegedly approach vehicles and, where bags are visible, break into them and remove items.
The PPRO explained that the police would expand the investigation, make further arrests where necessary and provide updates as the investigation progresses.
Adeh cautioned residents of the FCT to remain security-conscious and avoid confronting or chasing suspected criminals, particularly those disguising themselves as beggars.
She specifically urged residents not to leave valuables inside their vehicles and to avoid running after suspected criminals.
The command also urged residents to promptly report suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 08032003913 and 08061581938.
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