Police Crackdown On Infrastructure Thieves In Abuja, Recover Assets Worth N1 Billion.
In lieu of the recent vandalism and theft of public property within the Abuja Metropolis, the Nigeria Police Force in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has arrested 31 suspects linked to the theft of 115 manhole covers, transformer components, and other public assets valued at over N1 billion.
The arrests, which were made during a series of coordinated raids across various locations including Dei-Dei, Nyanya, Zuba, Mpape, Kabusa, Jabi, and Gwarinpa, mark one of the largest anti-vandalism operations in FCT’s history. The operation involved a joint task force comprising the Nigerian Police, the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence, DSS, Immigration, FRSC, NDLEA, and other security agencies.
During the raids, law enforcement officers recovered a vast array of stolen public assets. This included not only the manhole and drainage covers but also industrial solar batteries, solar panels, fibre optic cables, transformer components, armoured cables, 75 bags of cement, security doors, and electric changeovers. Additionally, the police seized vehicle chassis number templates, fake Mercedes-Benz chassis numbers, motorcycles, water pumping machines, and power generators.
Olatunji Disu, the FCT Commissioner of Police, addressed the media, stating that the operation was part of a broader strategy to protect public infrastructure and ensure the safety of residents. He highlighted the severe disruptions caused by these thefts, particularly noting how the pilfering of electrical components had led to prolonged blackouts in areas like Dawaki, Mpape, Nyanya, and Karu.
“Selling, receiving, or storing stolen government property will lead to immediate arrest, prosecution, and business closure,” Disu warned, emphasizing the zero-tolerance policy towards such criminal activities. He also appreciated the collaborative efforts of all involved security agencies and called on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
In light of these arrests, the Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML) has mandated all scrap dealers to come forward for profiling and registration, aiming to curb the market for stolen goods. Scavenging activities, commonly known in the FCT as “Baban Bola,” remain strictly banned.
The police have already charged 16 of the arrested suspects to court for criminal conspiracy, vandalism, and receiving stolen public property, offences that are punishable under Section 332 of the Penal Code. This legal action underscores the government’s commitment to upholding law and order and protecting public investments in infrastructure.
This crackdown has been met with relief by many residents who have long been frustrated by the dangers and inconveniences caused by missing manhole covers and the resulting disruptions in public services. It is hoped that this operation will serve as a deterrent to potential vandals and thieves, safeguarding Abuja’s infrastructure for the future.
