The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested eight suspected vandals and thieves allegedly linked to a series of criminal activities around the Auchi Bypass and Idokpa Market axis in the state.
The State Commandant, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing in Benin City, saying the arrests were part of the command’s sustained efforts to curb vandalism, theft and other crimes across Edo State.
According to him, the suspects were apprehended at about 5:00 a.m. on July 27 by operatives of the Command’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Department following credible intelligence.
Those arrested are Suhailu Muriga, 20; Rabiu Umah, 20; Frederick Phillip, 26; Sumila Abdul Ganiu, 25; Anthony Wisdom, 22; Osifo Godstime, 23; David Miracle, 27; and Osamudiame Otahegbogie, 19.
Ayinla said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had allegedly terrorised residents and business owners in the Auchi Bypass and Idokpa Market area by breaking into mechanic workshops to steal working tools, vandalising electrical cables from residential buildings, and carting away aluminium windows and other household fittings.
He disclosed that the suspects had made confessional statements, adding that investigations had been expanded to identify and arrest other members of the alleged syndicate, including those sponsoring, harbouring, financing or purchasing stolen and vandalised property.
The commandant said all those found culpable would be prosecuted after investigations are concluded.
He noted that the arrests came only days after the command warned scavengers, scrap dealers and buyers of stolen property to desist from activities that encourage vandalism or face legal consequences.
Ayinla reiterated that Edo State would not serve as a safe haven for criminals, warning that anyone involved in vandalism, theft or the purchase of stolen property would face the full weight of the law.
He also cautioned individuals impersonating security personnel or harassing members of the public under the guise of enforcing the recent pronouncement of the Edo State House of Assembly on scrap activities.
According to him, the proposed legislation has not yet been passed into law, stressing that no individual or organisation has the authority to enforce it.
He warned that anyone found impersonating security personnel or engaging in unlawful enforcement would be arrested and prosecuted.
The NSCDC boss further warned scavengers, scrap dealers and receivers of stolen property that they would be treated as active collaborators in criminal activities and held accountable under the law.
Ayinla assured residents that the command would continue to deploy intelligence-led operations and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies to dismantle criminal networks operating across the state.
He appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, describing public cooperation as crucial to ensuring the safety and security of Edo State.
