By Emmanuel Ogbodo
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Security Council has introduced stricter penalties for vandals, including charges of attempted murder and economic sabotage, to curb the rising theft of public infrastructure in Abuja.
Speaking after a security meeting chaired by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Commissioner of Police Tunji Disu said existing penalties, such as fines and community service, have failed to deter offenders.
He noted that stolen manhole covers pose grave dangers, often leading to fatal accidents, justifying the harsher charges.
As part of these measures, the council has imposed a two-week suspension on the operations of scrap and second-hand goods dealers (“Pantekas”) to allow for the profiling of legitimate businesses.
Scavenging has also been restricted to designated dump sites, with bans enforced within the city center and suburbs. Security agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance.
Disu urged residents to report vandalism, emphasizing that public infrastructure is a shared asset requiring collective protection. Reporting channels have been established to aid enforcement efforts.
On rising cases of “one chance” taxi robberies, the council declared that perpetrators will be prosecuted as armed robbers or kidnappers.
Disu revealed that over 21 vehicles used in these crimes were recovered in 2024, many of them fully tinted to prevent victims from raising alarm.
Regarding the recent explosion at an Islamiyyah school in Bwari Area Council, Disu confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with findings to be released upon conclusion.
The FCT Security Council reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing security across Abuja through decisive action against crime.
