Police arrest 40 suspects over drug peddling, other criminal offences in FCT

The Nigeria Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) says it has arrested 40 suspects in connection with various alleged criminal offences.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the FCT, ASP Mariam Yusuf, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

Yusuf listed the offences to include car snatching, drug peddling, armed robbery and public nuisance.

She said the suspects were arrested during coordinated raids and patrols in Abaji, Gwarinpa, Asokoro, Jabi-Daki Biyu and Mabushi axes, between Feb. 18 and Feb. 24.

Yusuf also listed exhibits recovered from the suspects to include: one White Toyota Hilux, one ash Toyota Corolla, one locally fabricated rifle, 21 unexpended cartridges and one fabricated marking gun.

She said two of the suspects were arrested for snatching a vehicle after attacking and trampling on their victim in the Lugbe axis.

The PPRO said the vehicle was recovered by police operatives on stop-and-search operations at the Abaji axis.

She said that another vehicle, a silver Toyota Corolla, was recovered from the suspects.

According to her, all the suspects have been arraigned except the car snatching syndicates that will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.

She called on FCT residents to remain calm, law-abiding and ensure compliance with all COVID-19 protocols.

Yusuf reiterated the unwavering commitment of the police command to protect lives and property within the territory.

She called on residents to report emergencies, distress and suspicious movements to the police on 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653 and 08028940883.

The PPRO said erring police officers could also be reported to the Public Complaint Bureau (PCB) on 09022222352.