The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory Command, CP Ahmed Sanusi, has directed all 17 Divisional Police Officers under the Metro Area Command to end robbery and related criminal activities within the city centre within two weeks.

Sanusi gave the directive on Friday during a meeting with the DPOs convened to review the prevailing security situation and strengthen operational strategies across the command.

According to a statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the meeting focused on emerging security threats and operational gaps within the Metro Area Command.

The statement said the commissioner expressed concern over rising incidents of traffic robbery, vehicle snatching at gunpoint, “one-chance” robberies, reckless driving, vandalism of public and private property, illegal parking on highways, traffic congestion, as well as the activities of commercial motorcyclists operating on major roads.

“He therefore ordered the DPOs to end these crimes within two weeks or face the consequences,” the statement read.

Sanusi also directed all DPOs and the Area Commander Metro to prioritise security operations within the city centre, adding that he would personally take charge of security challenges in the suburbs.

The commissioner warned against negligence, directing the supervising Area Commander to ensure strict compliance with all operational directives.

“The CP stressed that he will not condone negligence, directing the Area Commander Metro who is the supervising officer to provide effective leadership and ensure strict compliance with the directives,” the statement added.

The command urged residents to continue supporting police operations by providing timely and credible information to the nearest police division or through its emergency lines.

The directive comes as the FCT Police intensify efforts to tackle crime in the capital, particularly robbery and kidnapping.

A rescue operation in the Byazhin area on June 9 freed five kidnapped victims while two suspects were neutralised.

This was followed by raids that dismantled bandit hideouts along the Abuja–Niger–Kaduna border, resulting in arrests and the destruction of criminal camps. (The PUNCH)