Nigeria TV Info 

How Beggars, Destitutes Are Being Used As Drug Couriers — FCTA

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has raised alarm over the increasing use of beggars, destitutes and physically challenged persons by criminal syndicates to transport illicit drugs across Abuja.

The Secretary of the FCT Command and Control Centre, Peter Olumuji, disclosed this during the ongoing “Operation Sweep” enforcement exercise aimed at removing beggars, scavengers and other vulnerable persons from major streets in the nation’s capital.

According to Olumuji, intelligence reports revealed that criminal elements now exploit vulnerable individuals as drug couriers, especially during nighttime operations, because security operatives are less likely to suspect them.

He explained that some physically challenged persons and street beggars are allegedly being used to move illegal substances across different parts of Abuja without attracting attention. He added that some of them also serve as informants for criminal gangs operating within the FCT.

Olumuji further stated that enforcement officials have encountered resistance during raids, with some suspects reportedly attacking operatives using walking sticks and other mobility aids.

The FCTA noted that the development poses a serious security concern and justified the continuation of the ongoing crackdown on street begging and related activities within Abuja.

Head of FCT Enforcement, Ulkacha Adebayo, revealed that 54 persons, including 45 adults and nine children, were evacuated during Monday’s operation. She added that the administration had removed about 889 destitute persons from different parts of Abuja within the last three months.

According to her, those evacuated are being profiled and transferred to rehabilitation centres where they will receive welfare assistance and vocational training as part of efforts to reintegrate them into society.

The administration reiterated its commitment to improving security, restoring orderliness and reducing criminal activities across the Federal Capital Territory.