The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command, has apprehended four suspects linked to the vandalism of street light poles at various locations within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The FCT commandant of the NSCDC, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, disclosed this during the suspects’ parade on Friday at the command’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to the commandant , the operation was covertly carried out by operatives in conjunction with the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Tactical Team during routine night patrols.
The suspects, identified as Japheth Adams (21, Zango Kataf LGA, Kaduna State), Friday Ojo (51, Ojo LGA, Lagos State), Ibrahim Aliyu (19, Nasarawa LGA, Kano State), and Hassan Abdullahi (23, Zaria LGA, Kaduna State), were arrested in two separate incidents.
Japheth Adams and Friday Ojo were apprehended at 1:00 AM on November 27, 2024, near Eden Garden in the Utako area while vandalising medium-sized streetlight poles.
Ibrahim Aliyu and Hassan Abdullahi were caught in the act of vandalising “gigantic streetlight” poles at Moshood Abiola Stadium, near the National Hospital junction, at 2:00 AM on Thursday, November 28, 2024.
Exhibits recovered include one medium-sized traffic light pole and two streetlight poles.
Speaking during the parade, the NSCDC FCT Commandant reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eradicating vandalism and protecting public infrastructure.
“This arrest is a testament to our resilience and dedication to preserving our common heritage. Under my watch, the FCT is a no-go area for vandals and other criminal elements,” Odumosu declared.
He noted that the suspects are under investigation.
“Repent, relocate, or face the wrath of the law. We will not rest until every criminal element is flushed out of the Federal Capital Territory,” he stressed.
Odumosu further urged FCT residents to support the NSCDC by providing credible intelligence to aid in their operations
“I wish to solicit the cooperation of residents of the FCT in the area of credible intelligence and information that will assist us in serving you better. Rest assured that we will maintain utmost confidentiality, as your safety remains our top priority,” the commandant assured.