The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, has successfully apprehended five individuals suspected of engaging in acts of vandalism during a series of operations across Abuja. These arrests highlight ongoing efforts to combat theft and the destruction of public infrastructure in the capital city.
In an official statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Samuel Idoko, it was revealed that the first operation led to the arrest of two suspects, Suleiman Ibrahim, aged 17, and Abubakar Zakari, aged 22, both hailing from Kano State. They were intercepted by the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department while on routine patrol near the Wuse Market Bridge. The duo was found in possession of iron poles that they allegedly stole from the Arts and Culture Complex located in Area 10, Garki. Reports indicate that they were in the process of transporting these poles to potential buyers when law enforcement officials intervened.
Following this, a second operation by the anti-vandal unit of the NSCDC led to the arrest of three additional suspects at the Durumi 2 market. Acting on credible intelligence, operatives detained Aliyu Danladi (37), Jamilu Abdulrahaman (25), and Usman Ibrahim (38) while they were allegedly attempting to sell stolen goods.
During these arrests, a significant cache of items suspected to have been stolen or vandalized was recovered. This included three electronic billboards, two solar batteries, a gas cylinder, a generator set, and various tools such as an iron hammer, large iron scissors, an air conditioner gas pipe, and several other items, including an Abuja vehicle plate number, two iron pinches, a machete, and two plastic drums. The diverse nature of the recovered items underscores the extensive operations of these criminal elements.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the arrested individuals may be part of a larger criminal syndicate involved in the theft and illicit sale of vandalized public infrastructure as well as household items. The NSCDC has highlighted that buyers often frequent these markets during odd hours, utilizing trucks to transport the stolen goods to unknown destinations.
Dr. Olusola Odumosu, the Commandant of the FCT NSCDC, addressed the issue, emphasizing the need for tighter regulations on pantaker markets, which he described as hotspots for criminal activities. He stated, “If we must rid the FCT of scavengers and vandals who are sabotaging the government’s efforts on infrastructural development, then there is an urgent need to regulate pantaker markets in the Federal Capital Territory.”
Odumosu further lamented that a majority of stolen and vandalized items from public spaces ultimately find their way into the hands of buyers in these markets. He expressed concern over the persistent challenges posed by such activities, noting that it has become increasingly alarming.
In light of these developments, the NSCDC has pledged to continue its investigations, ensuring that all individuals involved in these criminal activities are brought to justice. The agency’s commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure and combating vandalism remains resolute as they work to restore order and security in the Federal Capital Territory.
