FCTA Picks Up 210 Beggars in Major Crackdown, Says Parents Rents Children Out for Begging

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has revealed a shocking trend of families renting out their children to beggars, further complicating the fight against human trafficking and child exploitation in the nation’s capital.

This development came to light as the FCTA intensified its clampdown on street begging and criminal activities through its ongoing operation, SWEEP Abuja Clean.

210 beggars have been picked up from various roads across the FCT, comprising 80 men, 58 women, and 72 children

According to Gloria Onwuka, Acting Director of Social Welfare at the Social Development Secretariat, children as young as eight to 10 years old are being trafficked into the FCT to participate in begging rings.

She disclosed that 210 beggars have been picked up from various roads across the FCT, comprising 80 men, 58 women, and 72 children.

The apprehended beggars are taken to the FCT Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre in Bwari, where they are accommodated, profiled, and prepared for repatriation to their various states of origin. The facility is well-equipped with essentials to ensure their comfort during their stay.

Operation SWEEP Abuja Clean aims to eliminate begging and tackle broader criminal activities fueling insecurity and fear among residents

FCTA Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued a directive to the Social Development Secretariat to rid the capital city of beggars and criminals, safeguarding law-abiding residents and restoring Abuja’s image.

The Director of Security Services, Adamu Gwary, emphasized that Operation SWEEP Abuja Clean aims to eliminate begging and tackle broader criminal activities fueling insecurity and fear among residents.

The operation highlights the FCTA’s commitment to addressing the issue of street begging and its underlying causes, including human trafficking and child exploitation.

By providing rehabilitation and repatriation services, the FCTA aims to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation that drives individuals into begging.

Read Also: FCTA Launches ‘Operation Sweep Abuja’ to Evacuate Street Beggars, Miscreants