In a major operation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested 50 individuals linked to the vandalism of manholes and streetlights in Abuja.
The crackdown led to the recovery of significant stolen items, including 25 manhole covers, vandalized solar streetlights, and construction materials.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, revealed that the operation targeted hotspots in Kabusa, Garki, Mabushi, and Wuse, where law enforcement officials confiscated various stolen public infrastructure.
Alongside the recovered manhole covers and streetlights, the police also found galvanised rods, high-voltage cables, firearms, and solar panels.
“These individuals are part of a larger network selling stolen manhole covers to scrap dealers,” said Disu. “The diversity and volume of the stolen items highlight the organized nature of these criminal syndicates, which harm public infrastructure and services.”
The criminal activities endanger public safety by creating hazards in roads and walkways. The FCT Police Command operates a zero-tolerance policy against such vandalism.
“Our commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure is unwavering, and we will continue to bring all perpetrators to justice,” Disu stressed.
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has identified an iron smelting company as one of the alleged buyers of stolen manhole covers.
The FCTA’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Mr. Lere Olayinka, confirmed that several exhibits were recovered from the company, and investigations are ongoing to trace further involvement in the thefts.
In a statement, Olayinka revealed that some detained suspects are assisting with the investigation by providing useful information about buyers of stolen infrastructure.
The FCTA has begun replacing the vandalized manhole covers, in line with directives from FCT Minister Mr. Nyesom Wike, who condemned the vandalism for endangering road users.
As investigations progress, the FCTA has vowed to take all necessary actions to ensure that the perpetrators face justice.
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