The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command currently impounds 675 vehicles in Abuja for a range of traffic and safety offences, including the use of tinted windows, unauthorised taxi operations, and obscured number plates.
This update emerges from a press briefing held on Tuesday by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, following a security committee meeting chaired by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. The announcement is part of ongoing enforcement efforts under Operation Sweep Abuja, which begins on July 7 to strengthen urban safety and enforce existing regulations.
According to Adewale, several of the seized vehicles operate without proper documentation or pose as commercial transport services to exploit unsuspecting commuters, commonly referred to as “one chance” operations. Others are held for illegal modifications, such as tinted glasses and concealed registration numbers.
In addition to the vehicle seizures, police also detain 273 individuals for street begging and vagrancy-related activities across various parts of the capital. Those arrested are undergoing profiling, with repatriation processes underway for individuals traced to other states. The FCT Social Development Secretariat handles the cases involving beggars, while the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) takes over drug-related arrests.
The FCT Security Committee describes the operation as impactful and recommends its continuation. Minister Wike instructs security agencies to step up clearance of illegal structures, removal of miscreants, and closure of unauthorised mining sites and makeshift IDP camps, citing growing security threats.
Adewale adds that violations such as driving against traffic and the use of covered plates now attract stricter penalties as enforcement intensifies. He further notes that peace returns to the Gwagwalada Area Council after a recent clash between farmers and herders, with both parties signing a peace agreement.
Operation Sweep Abuja forms part of broader efforts by FCT authorities to enhance public safety, reinforce law and order, and maintain a secure environment for residents and visitors across the capital.
 Police Command currently impounds 675 vehicles in Abuja for a range of traffic and safety offences, including the use of tinted windows, unauthorised taxi operations, and obscured number plates.){kind=link}