The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has apprehended 13 suspects accused of damaging public infrastructure valued at N5 million in Abuja.
The arrest occurred between September 7 and September 9, 2024, and involved individuals responsible for vandalising street lights, billboards, electrical cables, and iron rods across various areas of the capital.
FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, revealed the arrests during a press briefing held on Monday. He stated that the suspects were caught following an intense surveillance operation by NSCDC personnel.
This operation, conducted in collaboration with the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department, targeted different parts of the city.
The vandalised items, including street light cables, armoured electrical cables, billboards, and iron rods, were valued at approximately N5 million. Key areas affected included the Kukwaba railway overhead bridge and Nnamdi Azikiwe Way.
Recovered materials from the suspects included motorcycles, shovels, and other stolen items.
Odumosu reiterated the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and issued a stern warning to criminals in the FCT to cease their activities or face the full weight of the law.
The command’s operation is expected to continue, with ongoing efforts to track down the buyers of the stolen materials.
The Commandant also disclosed that investigations are still underway, and the suspects will be prosecuted.
Authorities are also making moves to identify and arrest those involved in the resale of stolen infrastructure, ensuring that both the vandals and their buyers face justice.
