By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has taken a significant step in combating crime in Abuja, parading 36 scavengers arrested for alleged involvement in vandalism and theft of public infrastructure.
According to FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu, the suspects were apprehended across various parts of the city during a crackdown on scavengers, locally known as Baba Nbola. The arrests come after FCT Minister Nyesom Wike banned scavenging and suspended commercial activities in Pantaker Markets for two weeks.
The suspects were caught engaging in criminal acts, including vandalizing public infrastructure such as manhole covers, streetlights, and solar panels, which they sold as scrap, causing significant damage
Odumosu revealed that the suspects were caught engaging in criminal acts, including vandalizing public infrastructure such as manhole covers, streetlights, and solar panels, which they sold as scrap, causing significant damage. Recovered items included daggers, jack knives, chisels, iron rods, narcotics, codeine syrup, and cannabis. Some scavengers also acted as informants for armed robbers, kidnappers, and other criminal gangs, leading to crimes like kidnapping, robbery, and murder.
The Commandant urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding patronizing scavengers to ensure safety.
He reiterated the FCT’s ban on scavenging, restricting such activities to designated dump sites and warning violators of prosecution. With the suspects currently being profiled, due legal processes will follow, marking a significant step towards ridding Abuja of criminal elements and restoring order.