By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has arrested 12 scavengers in Abuja as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal scrap dealings, following the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA), ban on the activity.
FCT NSCDC Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, stated that the suspects were apprehended across various locations amid rising concerns over vandalism of public infrastructure, including rail tracks, manhole covers, and streetlight poles.
He reiterated that anyone caught trading in stolen government property would face prosecution and possible business closure.
Authorities are also screening dealers at the Pantaker scrap market to eliminate illegal operators, urging residents to report scavenging activities. Odumosu emphasized that the ban remains in force, vowing to curb vandalism in Abuja and its environs.