In a move to curb the rising cases of one-chance cab robbery incidents in the Federal Capital Territory, Police Commissioner Tunji Disu has ordered the immediate seizure of all vehicles operating without number plates across the territory.
Disu also ordered the deployment of extra personnel and equipment to enhance patrols and stop-and-search operations throughout the capital city.
According to the command’s spokesperson, SP. Josephine Adeh, the police will also enforce regulations on covered number plates and tinted glasses.
Adeh urged residents to bear with the command as some of these moves might cause inconvenience to commuters, among others.
She said: “The FCT Police Command is deploying additional personnel and equipment for patrols, stop-and-search operations, and surveillance throughout the Federal Capital Territory. This initiative aims to combat rising incidents of ‘one chance’ crimes and car theft.
“We will be impounding vehicles without registration numbers, with only one plate, or using defaced plates. Regulations regarding covered number plates and tinted glasses will also be enforced.
“While these operations may cause some inconvenience, they reflect our commitment to the safety of all FCT residents and to deterring criminal activities targeting motorists and passengers.
“Since launching these measures, we have successfully recovered stolen vehicles and apprehended ‘one chance’ robbers. We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during these operations, and we advise vehicle owners to ensure compliance with all regulations.
“The FCT Police Command is dedicated to maintaining a secure environment. We encourage residents to report suspicious activities and cooperate with our officers. Your safety is our priority.”
Robbery gangs, known as “One-chance,” have become rampant in the FCT and its surrounding areas.
The brazen crime has dominated headlines in various media outlets and social media platforms on a daily basis.
Disguising as legitimate taxi drivers and passengers, these criminal syndicates have instilled fear and anxiety into public transportation users in the FCT.
They are often heavily armed with dangerous weapons, including daggers, knives, guns, and hypnotic powder, which they use to attack and rob innocent passengers of their valuables before forcibly ejecting them from their speeding vehicle.
In an effort to curb the menace, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in October 2019 issued a warning to shut down all illegal motor parks in the city.
Also, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, rolled out several strategies to tackle the menace.
The strategies include constructing modern bus terminals, equipping the FCT Police with necessary resources, and empowering youths with 80 brand-new vehicles for taxi businesses.
The minister also announced that Abuja cab drivers must obtain security clearance from the FCT Police starting in January 2025 and that their vehicles must be repainted in the distinctive Abuja green color.
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