FCT Security Agencies To Profile Pantaker Market Operators

FCT Security Agencies To Profile Pantaker Market Operators
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Security Agencies in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have finalized plans to commence the profiling of Pantaker market operators as part of efforts to curb vandalism and regulate their activities.

Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the AbuFCTja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), made this known during a meeting with Pantaker market officials in Abuja on Friday.

Obuah explained that the profiling initiative would help identify legitimate traders and ensure proper monitoring of their activities. This follows the FCT Security Council’s recent suspension of all Pantaker market operations on January 13 for two weeks, citing security concerns.

Pantaker markets, known for dealing in fairly used items and scrap materials, have been under scrutiny due to reports of vandalized public property being sold through these channels. A recent raid by security agencies reportedly led to the recovery of stolen items worth over ₦1 billion.

To tackle this, Obuah stated that all Pantaker operators must be registered and profiled, while also keeping a record of their suppliers and buyers.

“We need to know who is supplying what and who is buying. This register will be crucial for monitoring and taking security action when necessary,” he said.

The FCT Administration has warned operators against purchasing stolen goods and urged them to report suspicious transactions to security agencies. Those found in possession of stolen or vandalized items will be arrested and prosecuted.

FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, announced that the profiling exercise would begin on February 1. He assured that only verified and trusted individuals would be allowed to continue operations.

National Chairman of Pantaker Operators, Alhaji Abbas Bello, pledged the association’s support for the initiative, acknowledging the presence of criminal elements within their ranks. Other Pantaker leaders also expressed readiness to collaborate with authorities to sanitize the sector and restore its credibility.

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