Operation to Curb Traffic Violations in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched an operation to impound vehicles with tinted glasses without permits, fake number plates, and other traffic violations. According to the FCTA Director, Department of Security Service, Adamu Gwary, the measure is geared toward curbing incidences of ‘one-chance syndrome’ in the FCT.
The Operation
The ‘Stop and Search’ operation, which took place at the Apo-Wassa junction and Karu axis of Abuja, is part of the second phase of ‘Operation Sweep Abuja Clean’, a multi-agency crime prevention initiative. The joint taskforce operation has helped in recovering seven stolen vehicles within the last one week. The exercise targets criminally-inclined motorists, particularly those perpetrating notorious ‘one chance’ robberies in the city and satellite towns.
Vehicles Impounded
Over 700 vehicles have been impounded from both the first and second phases of the operation. Intelligence gathered from victims revealed that most of the vehicles used for the ‘one chance’ were either illegally tinted, unregistered, or bearing fake number plates. Vehicle owners, such as cab drivers, have no justification for using tinted glass, which often aids criminals in concealing their activities.
Reduction in Crime
The operation has drastically reduced incidences of one chance to the barest minimum. The stop-and-search exercise has made it clear to criminals that no matter where they are in the FCT, the team will always reach them. Several stolen vehicles have been recovered within the last week alone, and residents have been assured that the operation is yielding results.
Collaboration with Agencies
The operation is a joint collaboration with all agencies, especially the lead agency, which is the police. The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) has reiterated the administration’s commitment to rid the city of unregistered and unpainted taxis, commonly used by criminals. Several vehicles were impounded during the joint task force operation for various offences such as driving against traffic, lack of registration, and use of number plates not assigned to the vehicles.
Conclusion
The ‘Operation Sweep Abuja Clean’ is a welcome development in the fight against crime in the FCT. The operation has shown that with collaboration and determination, crime can be reduced to the barest minimum. Residents have been urged to cooperate with enforcement officers for a safer and more secure FCT.
FAQs
- What is the main aim of the ‘Operation Sweep Abuja Clean’?
The main aim of the operation is to curb incidences of ‘one-chance syndrome’ in the FCT. - How many vehicles have been impounded during the operation?
Over 700 vehicles have been impounded from both the first and second phases of the operation. - What types of vehicles are being targeted by the operation?
Vehicles with tinted glasses without permits, fake number plates, and other traffic violations are being targeted by the operation. - Has the operation been successful in reducing crime?
Yes, the operation has drastically reduced incidences of one chance to the barest minimum. - What is the role of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) in the operation?
The DRTS is collaborating with other agencies to rid the city of unregistered and unpainted taxis, commonly used by criminals.
