The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested four individuals suspected of vandalizing streetlight poles across Abuja. The arrests were made during routine night patrols by the command’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Tactical Team.
Speaking on Friday while parading the suspects, NSCDC FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure within the capital territory.
The first arrest occurred on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, around 1 a.m. near Eden Garden in Utako. Two suspects, 21-year-old Japheth Adams from Zango Kataf Local Government Area in Kaduna State, and 51-year-old Friday Ojo from Ojo Local Government Area in Lagos State, were caught dismantling a medium-sized streetlight pole.
The second operation took place the following day, Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 2 a.m. near the Moshood Abiola Stadium at the National Hospital Junction. Ibrahim Aliyu, 19, from Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, and Hassan Abdullahi, 23, from Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, were apprehended while attempting to dismantle two large streetlight poles.
Recovered items from the suspects include a medium-sized traffic light pole and two large streetlight poles. The suspects are currently under investigation, with authorities assuring that proper legal processes will be followed to ensure justice is served.
Commandant Odumosu reiterated the NSCDC’s resolve to safeguard critical assets and warned vandals and other criminal elements to desist from their activities.
“Our operatives are on 24-hour surveillance and patrol across the metropolis and surrounding suburbs. The FCT is a no-go area for vandals, scavengers, and hoodlums who engage in criminal acts under the cover of darkness,” Odumosu declared.
He reaffirmed the command’s determination to crack down on such activities, stating, “You either repent, relocate, or face the wrath of the law. We will not rest until all criminal elements are flushed out of the FCT.”
The commandant urged Abuja residents to support the NSCDC by providing credible intelligence and assured informants of confidentiality and safety. The arrests serve as a warning to potential offenders and a reminder of the agency’s vigilance in protecting public infrastructure.
