FCTA Begins Clampdown on Beggars and Scavengers in Abuja, 34 Arrested

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced a widespread crackdown on beggars and scavengers across Abuja, arresting 34 individuals in response to a directive aimed at ridding the capital of street activity deemed unlawful or disruptive. The operation, which began Monday, netted 15 beggars and 19 scavengers in various parts of the city.

The FCTA had previously issued a warning to individuals engaging in street begging and scavenging within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), directing them to vacate the area or face removal. Those arrested will either be transported to the FCTA’s rehabilitation center for vocational training or repatriated to their home states if they decline the offer to learn new skills.

The joint operation, described by Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu as a “national assignment,” includes personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other paramilitary agencies. Disu urged all operatives to maintain professionalism but remain firm in enforcing the ministerial mandate.

“This operation will last for the first two weeks,” he said. “We will review our progress afterward to decide if further actions are necessary.”

Adamu Gwary, Director of Security at the FCTA, highlighted the operation’s extensive reach, covering strategic areas such as the city center, Airport Road, Kubwa axis, and suburban zones like Asokoro, AYA, Nyanya, Karu, and Jikwoyi. Gwary noted that no beggars were encountered in the city center, likely due to heightened awareness of the operation, but teams were still able to apprehend individuals in other areas.

Kaka Bello, Head of Enforcement at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), clarified that the clampdown extends beyond beggars, targeting all forms of unapproved activity, including illegal street vending and roadside operations.

Dr. Sani Rabe, Director of Social Welfare for the FCTA, provided further details on the rehabilitation process. According to Rabe, those willing to participate in skill acquisition programs will receive training at the Kuchikon rehabilitation center in Bwari Area Council, while those uninterested in vocational training will be sent back to their home states.

This high-level operation represents the FCTA’s commitment to enhancing urban safety and sanitation in the FCT, with ongoing assessments to determine the effectiveness of the enforcement effort.