The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Federal Capital Territory Command has apprehended five individuals suspected of involvement in vandalism across Abuja. The arrests were made during two separate operations, targeting criminal activities related to public infrastructure theft.

In a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Samuel Idoko, two suspects, Suleiman Ibrahim (17) and Abubakar Zakari (22), both from Kano State, were apprehended near the Wuse Market Bridge during a routine patrol by the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department. The suspects were found in possession of iron poles allegedly stolen from the Arts and Culture Complex in Area 10, Garki. They were intercepted while attempting to transport the stolen items to buyers.

In a second operation, the NSCDC’s anti-vandal unit arrested three more suspects at the Durumi 2 market. Acting on a tip-off, the operatives detained Aliyu Danladi (37), Jamilu Abdulrahaman (25), and Usman Ibrahim (38) while they were attempting to sell stolen items. Recovered items included electronic billboards, solar batteries, a generator, gas cylinders, and other household goods.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects are part of a larger criminal syndicate involved in the theft and sale of vandalized public infrastructure. The NSCDC revealed that the stolen goods are often sold in pantaker markets, where buyers use trucks to transport them to unknown locations.

The FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, called for tighter regulation of pantaker markets, labeling them hotspots for criminal activities. He emphasized the need for decisive action to curb vandalism, which is undermining infrastructure development in the Federal Capital Territory.

The NSCDC has vowed to continue its investigation and ensure that all those involved face justice.