FCTA Raids Scrap Markets After Theft Of Solar Streetlight Batteries

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has intensified surveillance across scrap markets in Abuja following reports that thieves are stealing batteries from newly installed solar streetlights.

The raids, led by Operation Sweep Joint Task Force established by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, target markets suspected of being outlets for stolen public infrastructure.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday after inspecting the International Scrap Market in Apo and the Jabi Pantaker Market, the Director of Security Services at the FCTA, Adamu Gwary, said the exercise was aimed at tightening oversight of pantaker markets.

Gwary, represented by the Secretary, Command and Control, Dr. Peter Olumuji, said the media tour showcased Operation Sweep’s achievements.

Olumuji said, “The reason we went out today with the media is to showcase the work of Operation Sweep, particularly the Joint Task Force established by the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. This team has been working around the clock throughout the year, especially during the peak season, and as a result, there has been relative peace across the FCT.”

He recalled that Abuja recorded a spike in vandalism of public infrastructure last year, particularly manhole covers, but noted that Operation Sweep’s intervention reduced the menace.

“The Honourable Minister has continued the installation of solar streetlights across the territory. Unfortunately, we have received reports that some unscrupulous individuals have been removing batteries from these solar streetlights. We cannot allow this to continue. That is why we have intensified monitoring in Pantaka markets,” he added.

Olumuji disclosed that the task force had intercepted stolen items prior to Tuesday’s operation.

The operatives recovered a vehicle conveying armoured cables suspected to be stolen after the occupants fled when the vehicle ran into a ditch during an attempted escape.

“Similarly, during visits to some Pantaka markets, we recovered suspected stolen items. The shop owners have been invited, and the police will investigate to establish whether the items are indeed stolen. If they are confirmed to be stolen, the law will take its full course,” Olumuji said.

During Tuesday’s inspection, a vehicle being dismantled for sale was sighted at one of the markets. The task force verified the transaction with the owner and confirmed the vehicle had been legally sold to the pantaker dealers.

“This is just one of many achievements recorded across the territory. Let it be clearly stated that there is no hiding place for criminal elements within the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

Olumuji said the operation was not only about arrests but also about sensitising market operators on their responsibilities.

“Our visit is not solely about making arrests. It is also to sensitise Pantaka operators not to accept stolen items in their markets. We have clearly informed them that if stolen items are found in any Pantaka market, the leadership and shop owners will be held accountable,” he said.

The Vice Chairman of the Apo Pantaker Market, Hassan Mohammed, described the inspection as timely and commended the FCTA for its efforts.

Mohammed said, “This visit is very important, and we sincerely appreciate the effort of the authorities. We have always collaborated with security agencies, and we operate a strong task force. Before anyone enters this market with any item, they must brief our task force at the gate.”

He explained that the market verifies receipts and agreements for items brought in and maintains records to ensure transparency.

“We also enlighten our members that before buying any vehicle, they must contact the owner of the vehicle. Once you speak with the original owner and receive confirmation, you are assured that the sale is authorized,” he stated.

Mohammed noted that the market also operates an independent intelligence unit to prevent illegal trading.

“As you can observe at the market gate, we have clearly displayed prohibited items. We do not tolerate government property in this market. We are 100 per cent in collaboration with security agents,” he added.