The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has reported a significant wave of criminal activities in the nation's capital, recording a total of 300 major crime cases between October and December 2025. The Commissioner of Police, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, made this revelation during a press briefing, detailing a period marked by kidnappings, armed robberies, and violent confrontations.
Breakdown of Crimes and Police Operations
Providing a detailed analysis, CP Dantawaye outlined the specific incidents that contributed to the alarming figure. The command recorded seven cases of kidnapping, which led to the arrest of 41 suspects through intelligence operations and coordinated raids with other security agencies. In the category of armed robbery, 62 incidents were logged, resulting in 38 arrests and the recovery of several firearms and ammunition.
The notorious 'one-chance' robbery tactic accounted for 26 cases, with 12 suspects apprehended. Furthermore, 35 incidents of car theft and vehicle snatching were reported, leading to 11 arrests and the recovery of 20 stolen vehicles. Overall police operations during this three-month period culminated in the arrest of 160 suspects and the successful rescue of 32 victims from various dangerous situations.
Casualties and Massive Recoveries
The crackdown on crime came at a heavy cost. CP Dantawaye disclosed that nine armed suspects were killed in gun battles with police operatives. Tragically, six police officers also lost their lives in the line of duty while confronting these criminal elements.
The police recovered a vast arsenal of weapons and other items linked to the crimes. The haul included:
- 21 AK-47 rifles, 10 shotguns, and 1 K2 rifle.
- 37 locally made pistols and 31 other fabricated firearms.
- Over 1,700 rounds of live ammunition.
- ₦15.45 million in cash, 86 bags of suspected cannabis, and 14 vehicles.
Strategic Challenges and Assurance to Residents
CP Dantawaye attributed part of the security challenge to the FCT's unique status. He noted that its strategic location, bordering states like Niger, Kaduna, Kogi, and Nasarawa, coupled with its role as Nigeria's political and diplomatic center, makes it attractive to criminals seeking to exploit its economic and social significance.
"Since assuming duty in October 2025, the command has undertaken a comprehensive review of the prevailing security situation across the six Area Councils of the FCT," the Commissioner stated. He assured residents of the territory that the police are committed to strengthening security frameworks and will continue relentless efforts to protect lives and property in Abuja.
