Crackdown on scrap yards: FCT Police arraign 16 people over alleged vandalism, theft of govt. property

No fewer than 16 people have been brought before a Chief Magistrates’ Court, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, for allegedly vandalizing critical government property and unlawful possession of stolen items.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command which arraigned them, gave their names as Abubakar Adamu, Emmanuel John Eze, Emeka Ezekiel, Ahmad Suleiman, Dennis Chigozie, Ismail Usman, Victor Ezeokoye, and Izundu Fidelis.

Others are Alex Okechukwu Eddy, Jonathan R. Obi, Simon Samuel, Mubarak Lawal, Okafor Ekene, Usman Lawal, Shuaibu Yahaya, and James Edu.

Upon their arraignment, they entered pleas of “not guilty” and have since been remanded at the Keffi Correctional Centre (prison) pending further proceedings.

The case has been adjourned until January 30, 2025, for hearing

The FCT command’s spokesperson, SP. Josephine Adeh, issued a statement on Friday given to Persecondnews, revealing that the suspects were brought before the court on January 22, 2025, to face criminal charges.

Adeh said their arrests and arraignment followed an intensive crackdown on scrap yards, commonly known as panteka, culminating in the arrest of multiple suspects and the recovery of substantial quantities of stolen and vandalized government assets, including manhole covers, armored cables, and streetlights.

She said: “The arrests were the result of intelligence-led operations conducted across various locations within the FCT.

The operation, according to Adeh, underscores the unwavering commitment of the FCT Police Command to safeguarding public infrastructure and holding criminal elements accountable for their actions.

She added: “The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, has reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to maintaining law and order while urging residents to actively support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities promptly.

“The battle against the desecration of public infrastructure is not one for the Police alone—it is a collective duty. Together, we can protect the lifelines of our communities.

“For emergencies or to report criminal activities, residents are encouraged to contact the Command via the following numbers:
08032003913, 08028940883, CRU: 080107314192, PCB: 09022222352.”