By Our Correspondent
National News – The Federal Capital Territory Administration has raised concerns over the increasing use of beggars and vulnerable persons as couriers for illicit drugs in Abuja.
Officials disclosed that criminal groups are exploiting physically challenged persons and street beggars to move illegal substances across the city, especially during nighttime operations.
The Secretary of the FCT Command and Control Centre, Peter Olumuji, revealed the development during the ongoing enforcement exercise known as Operation Sweep.
According to him, intelligence gathered by security agencies showed that criminal networks deliberately recruit vulnerable individuals because they are less likely to attract suspicion from law enforcement officers.
Olumuji explained that some physically challenged persons and destitute individuals were allegedly being used not only to transport drugs but also to monitor security activities for criminal gangs operating within the Federal Capital Territory.
He added that enforcement officers had encountered resistance during raids, with some suspects attacking officials using walking sticks and mobility aids.
The FCTA stated that the operation aims to reduce street begging, improve public safety, and strengthen security across Abuja.
Authorities also said the exercise is part of wider efforts to restore order in major districts frequently affected by rising urban crime and public nuisance.
Head of FCT Enforcement, Ulkacha Adebayo, disclosed that 54 persons, including 45 adults and nine children, were evacuated during Monday’s raid.
She noted that the administration had removed about 835 beggars and destitute persons from Abuja streets within the past three months, bringing the total number evacuated to 889.
Adebayo further explained that those rescued from the streets were being profiled and moved to government rehabilitation centres, where they would receive welfare assistance and vocational training.
The enforcement exercise is currently taking place in Maitama, Asokoro, Garki, Wuse, and Gwarinpa under the directive of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
