Crackdown on Vandalism Leads to Recovery of Critical Public Assets
A joint security task force comprising the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, the military, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 31 suspected vandals across Abuja. The suspects were found in possession of stolen public infrastructure valued at over one billion naira.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, paraded the suspects on Friday, revealing that their actions had caused severe disruptions in several parts of the capital. The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) confirmed that a significant portion of the recovered cables and electrical components had been vandalized from multiple electricity stations across the FCT. As a result, residents of Dawaki, Mpape, Nyanya, Karu, and surrounding communities have endured prolonged blackouts.
Details of the Operation
Commissioner Disu stated that the joint task force conducted targeted raids on scavengers’ colonies and illegal scrap yards, locally known as “Pantakers,” where stolen public assets were allegedly dismantled and sold. The operation, which spanned several days, led to the recovery of a wide range of stolen infrastructure items, including:
- 115 stolen manhole and drainage covers
- Five motorcycles
- Stripped parts of electric transformers
- Industrial scaffoldings
- Bundles of armoured and insulated cables
- Government-installed barbed wire
- Copper wires
- 29 industrial and solar batteries
Disu explained, “Upon recovery, AEDC officials were invited to identify some of the items. They confirmed that the recovered cables and electrical components had been vandalised from multiple electricity stations across the FCT. As a direct consequence of these acts of vandalism, several areas, including Dawaki, Mpape, Nyanya, Karu, and surrounding communities, have been plunged into total blackout. The estimated value of all the recovered items exceeds ₦1,000,000,000.”
Raids and Recoveries
The joint task force carried out a series of raids in various locations, leading to significant recoveries:
- 24 January: Raids in Zuba (Abuja) and Diko (Niger State) yielded vehicle documents with unverifiable ownership, fake Mercedes-Benz chassis numbers, industrial solar batteries, solar panels, and large sacks of stolen armoured cables.
- 26 January: Further raids in Diko resulted in the recovery of additional stolen infrastructure materials.
- 28 January: Illegal structures along the road corridor in Dape Village were demolished to reclaim public infrastructure.
- 29 January: A raid on Dei-Dei ‘B’ Pantaker led to the recovery of stolen government-installed barbed wire.
Suspects Charged to Court
Commissioner Disu disclosed that 16 of the suspects had already been charged to court for criminal conspiracy and mischief by damaging public infrastructure. The suspects include:
- Abubakar Adamu
- Emmanuel Eze
- Emeka Eziekel
- Ahmad Suleiman
- Dennis Chiagozie
- Ismail Usman
- Victor Ezeokoye
- Izundu Fidelis
- Alex Eddy
- Jonathan Obi
- Simon Samuel
- Mubarak Lawal
- Okafor Ekene
- Usman Lawal
- Shuaibu Yahaya
- James Edu
A Broader Effort to Protect Public Infrastructure
Disu emphasized that the operation is part of a larger effort to curb vandalism and protect critical infrastructure in Abuja and surrounding areas. He warned criminal elements that security forces will continue to intensify efforts to root out those sabotaging public utilities.
“This comprehensive operation represents a decisive move towards eliminating vandalism and safeguarding critical infrastructure within the FCT and neighbouring states,” he said.
Impact on Affected Communities
The vandalism of public infrastructure has had a devastating impact on affected communities. Prolonged blackouts have disrupted daily life, affecting businesses, schools, and households. The theft of manhole and drainage covers has also posed significant safety risks, particularly during the rainy season.
Residents of Dawaki, one of the affected communities, expressed frustration over the situation. A local business owner, who spoke to FRONTPAGE, said, “The constant power outages have made it difficult to run my business. I rely on electricity to keep my goods fresh, but now I’m losing money every day because of these vandals.”
Calls for Stricter Measures
The recent arrests have sparked calls for stricter measures to protect public infrastructure. Community leaders and stakeholders have urged the government to increase surveillance and impose harsher penalties on vandals.
According to a civil society activist, “The government must take stronger action to deter vandals. These criminals are not just stealing cables; they are stealing the future of our communities. We need stricter laws and better enforcement to protect our public assets.”
Looking Ahead
The joint task force’s operation marks a significant step in the fight against vandalism in Abuja. However, much work remains to be done to ensure the safety and functionality of public infrastructure. Security agencies have pledged to continue their efforts, working closely with communities and stakeholders to prevent further acts of sabotage.
In conclusion, the arrest of 31 suspected vandals and the recovery of stolen infrastructure worth over ₦1 billion underscore the severity of the problem and the need for sustained action. By holding perpetrators accountable and safeguarding public assets, the government and security forces aim to restore stability and improve the quality of life for residents in the FCT and beyond.
