By Patrick Idowu
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Police Command has arrested four minors for allegedly stealing iron rods and other building materials from an uncompleted building in the Guzape area of Abuja.
The suspects, identified as Matthew Vincent (15), Timothy Shedrack (15), Moses Vincent (11), and Lucky Enock, were apprehended following a complaint at the Guzape Police Station.
Residents reported suspicious nighttime activity, including loud noises and swift movements at the construction site.
Preliminary investigations revealed the minors scaled the fence and used crude tools to dismantle materials, which were allegedly sold to a local scrap dealer known as “Babanbola.”
Authorities suspect Babanbola is part of a larger network involved in the theft and illegal trade of construction materials.
Efforts are ongoing to locate and dismantle the operation.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, PSC, urged parents to monitor their children’s activities and provide proper guidance to deter criminal behavior.
He also advised construction site owners to enhance security measures, including deploying guards and installing surveillance systems.
The minors will be transferred to juvenile homes for rehabilitation, with legal action taken against those found culpable.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and encouraged community vigilance to prevent juvenile crime.
