In a decisive crackdown during the festive period, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory has apprehended three individuals suspected of vandalising public infrastructure.
Patrol Leads to Apprehension Near National Stadium
The arrests occurred around the National Stadium vicinity, close to the National Hospital on Constitution Avenue in Abuja. According to an official statement, the suspects were caught in the act by the Command's Tactical Squad from the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Department.
The squad was on a routine patrol mission aimed at ensuring resident safety and protecting vital infrastructure throughout the Yuletide season. The suspects were reportedly arranging the vandalised items for removal to an undisclosed location when officers moved in.
Suspects and Recovered Exhibits Identified
The NSCDC FCT Command has named the three individuals in custody. All are male and hail from Ingawa Local Government Area in Katsina State.
- Abdulsalam Aminu, aged 25
- Mustapha Sale, aged 26
- Suleiman Sani, aged 19
Items recovered from the scene included road crash barriers of various sizes and one sledgehammer, believed to be the tool used in the criminal act. The Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing to establish full culpability and determine the appropriate legal actions.
Commandant Vows Zero Tolerance for Vandalism
Commenting on the incident, the FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, condemned the act, stating that criminals often exploit festive seasons to carry out such destructive activities.
"We are aware that these criminals always take advantage of festive seasons to perpetrate their heinous acts. That's the reason we mounted guard, waiting for them to beat them to their game," Odumosu stated.
He expressed dismay that government efforts to provide essential infrastructure are being undermined by individuals seeking selfish gains. The Commandant reaffirmed the NSCDC's mandate to protect all critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, telecommunication installations, and power assets.
"It is our responsibility to protect critical infrastructure and amenities... and we will not relent in our efforts," he asserted. Odumosu issued a stern warning to other criminal elements to desist from sabotaging government property or face the full wrath of the law.
He also called on residents of the Federal Capital Territory to support the Corps by providing useful intelligence to help rid the city of vandals and criminals, emphasizing that the protection of national assets remains a top priority in all conditions.
