The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has presented 36 scavengers arrested in Abuja over alleged involvement in crimes, including vandalism and theft of public infrastructure.
FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu, while addressing journalists on Friday, revealed that the suspects were apprehended across various parts of the city and its suburbs during a crackdown on scavengers, locally called Baba Nbola.
The arrests followed directives from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, banning scavenging and suspending commercial activities in Pantaker Markets for two weeks.
“These suspects were caught engaging in criminal acts disguised as scavenging. They vandalized public infrastructure, including manhole covers, streetlights, and solar panels, selling them as scrap and causing significant damage,” Odumosu said.
Recovered items included daggers, jack knives, chisels, iron rods, narcotics, codeine syrup, and cannabis.
Odumosu further explained that some scavengers also acted as informants for armed robbers, kidnappers, and other criminal gangs, leading to crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, and murder.
“They profile residents through disposed household waste, revealing information about their status and lifestyles. Many unsuspectingly perceive them as harmless individuals hustling for daily bread,” he noted.
The Commandant urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding patronizing scavengers to ensure safety.
He reiterated the FCT’s ban on scavenging, restricting such activities to designated dump sites and warning violators of prosecution.
“We are committed to ridding Abuja of criminal elements and restoring order. The suspects are currently being profiled, and due legal processes will follow,” Odumosu assured.
Peoplesmind
