An analysis of crime statistics and policing outcomes in Nigeria’s capital reveals a period of intense security operations, significant recoveries, and sobering sacrifices.
The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has provided a detailed public accounting of its first three months under Commissioner of Police Mr. Miller Dantawaye, who assumed office in October 2025. The data, presented during a media briefing in Abuja, offers more than just numbers; it provides a snapshot of the security challenges facing the capital and the tactical responses deployed to address them.
During the period under review, the command received 300 reported criminal cases, which led to the arrest of 160 suspects. This arrest-to-case ratio highlights the investigative focus following a report.
Breaking Down the Major Crime Categories
The commissioner’s breakdown reveals distinct threat patterns:
Kidnapping: Seven cases were reported, but the arrest of 41 suspects indicates these were often operations involving large gangs. CP Dantawaye credited the disruption of these networks to “intelligence-led operations, forest combing exercises, and joint operations with sister security agencies.” The successful rescue of 24 kidnap victims, including women and children, from forest hideouts underscores the perilous nature of these interventions.
Armed Robbery: With 62 cases recorded, this remains a prevalent threat. The arrest of 38 suspects and the dismantling of syndicates led to the recovery of a significant arsenal, pointing to the firepower these criminal groups possess.
“One-Chance” Robbery: This uniquely urban crime, where victims are trapped in rogue taxis or buses, saw 26 reported cases and 12 arrests. Police countered this through sustained surveillance and targeted raids on known hotspots.
Other Crimes: The command also dealt with 35 car theft cases, homicides, cultism, drug offences, and cyber-fraud, leading to an additional 120 arrests.
The Tangible Outcomes: Recoveries and Disruptions
The operational successes yielded a vast array of recovered items, painting a vivid picture of criminal activity:
- Arsenal Seized: 21 AK-47 rifles, 10 shotguns, 37 locally made pistols, and 31 other fabricated firearms. The prevalence of locally manufactured weapons is a critical concern for security experts.
- Financial Recovery: A striking N15.5 million in cash, identified as proceeds from kidnapping, robbery, and fraud, was recovered. This highlights the economic motive behind much of the crime and the importance of following the money trail.
- Other Exhibits: 20 stolen vehicles, 86 bags of suspected cannabis, armored cables, communication devices, and dangerous weapons.
The Human Cost of Policing
Beyond statistics, the report soberly acknowledges the high stakes of law enforcement in the FCT.
Nine suspects were neutralised in gun duels during high-risk anti-kidnapping and robbery response operations. Furthermore, six police officers paid the supreme price in the line of duty. “Their sacrifices remain a solemn reminder of the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to the protection of lives and property,” CP Dantawaye stated, framing these losses within the broader mission of the force.
The Justice Pipeline: Prosecutions and Convictions
Arrests are only the first step. The command reported that 96 suspects were charged to court, with 60 convictions already secured. This conviction rate is a crucial metric, indicating effective collaboration between the police and the justice system to ensure arrests lead to legal consequences. Many other cases are at various stages of prosecution.
This comprehensive briefing serves as both a public accountability measure and a strategic communication tool. It demonstrates the command’s operational tempo, details the multifaceted nature of threats in the capital region, and honors the sacrifices made while asserting a continued commitment to public safety. The data suggests a policing strategy reliant on intelligence, inter-agency cooperation, and aggressive intervention, set against a backdrop of persistent and violent criminal enterprises.
Report by Monday Ijeh for the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). Edited by Yakubu Uba.
