FCTA Arrests 210 Beggars as Crackdown on Scavengers and ‘One-Chance’ Syndicates Begins

In a major effort to rid the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of street crime, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has apprehended no fewer than 210 individuals, including street beggars, scavengers, illegal traders, and suspected members of the ‘one-chance’ robbery syndicates, under the new initiative “Operation Sweep Abuja.”

According to Mrs. Gloria Onwuka, Acting Director of the Social Welfare Department of the FCTA, the arrested individuals include 80 men, 58 women, and 72 children, now housed at a rehabilitation center in Bwari. Others suspected of criminal activities have been handed over to the police.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja, Onwuka revealed disturbing details about the exploitation of children for street begging. She said investigations showed that some of the children were brought from states such as Kano and Katsina, rented by individuals who use them to generate money through street begging.

“Begging is now run like a business,” Onwuka said. “People hire children, transport them early in the morning to Abuja, and send them to beg, remitting the proceeds back to their handlers.”

She further explained that the children’s families are often unaware of the nature of their activities in the capital. The FCTA intends to deport the children back to their states of origin after profiling.

The welfare director also described how some beggars fake medical conditions to deceive the public. One woman reportedly claimed to have breast cancer, but was exposed when officials removed her bandages and found no wounds. Similarly, other individuals used bandages to feign injuries.

The operation is part of a broader effort by the FCTA to restore order, curb urban crime, and ensure safety in the capital city. Authorities have promised sustained enforcement in collaboration with security agencies.