The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Capital Territory Command, recently apprehended five suspects involved in vandalism across Abuja in separate operations.
During a routine patrol near the Wuse Market Bridge, two suspects, Suleiman Ibrahim (17) and Abubakar Zakari (22), both from Kano State, were caught with iron poles allegedly stolen from the Arts and Culture Complex in Area 10, Garki. The suspects were intercepted while transporting the stolen items to potential buyers.
In a second operation at the Durumi 2 market, three more suspects, Aliyu Danladi (37), Jamilu Abdulrahaman (25), and Usman Ibrahim (38), were arrested by the anti-vandal unit of the NSCDC for attempting to sell stolen items. The authorities recovered various items believed to have been vandalized or stolen during the arrests.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may be part of a larger criminal group involved in stealing and selling vandalized public infrastructure and household goods. The NSCDC disclosed that buyers often visit markets at odd hours to purchase stolen goods, which are then transported via trucks to undisclosed locations.
FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, emphasized the need to regulate pantaker markets, which are identified as hubs for criminal activities. He stressed the importance of addressing vandalism to support the government’s infrastructural development efforts.
The NSCDC has committed to ongoing investigations to ensure those responsible for vandalism are held accountable and face legal consequences.