Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has vowed that individuals arrested in connection with the theft of sewage manhole covers along Abuja’s highways will face severe legal consequences to deter similar criminal activities.
In a statement released by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the FCT Minister, Wike assured the public that authorities would pursue the apprehension and prosecution of all individuals involved in buying or using the stolen manhole covers and other vandalised public properties.
He emphasised that such actions not only constitute economic sabotage but also endanger the lives of Nigerians.
On Monday, Olayinka stated that the recent arrest of at least 50 suspects tied to the vandalism and theft of manhole covers in the FCT, along with the recovery of 25 stolen covers.
He described these actions as a testament to the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) commitment to combating criminal activities, mainly the vandalism of public assets.
Wike praised the swift and decisive actions of the security agencies, terming their collaborative efforts “fantastic” and providing further assurance to FCT residents that their lives and property are being safeguarded.
He also expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their patriotism in denouncing acts of vandalism, stating, “Protecting public amenities is primarily the responsibility of the citizens, who are the rightful users of these resources.”
The minister encouraged citizens, especially those in the FCT, to continue leveraging social media positively, as they did in response to the recent theft of manhole covers, and promised that the government will always respond promptly.
He cautioned that those stealing or purchasing amenities intended for public use are, in fact, fellow Nigerians who reside among the population, urging patriotic citizens to expose these wrongdoers before they can commit further acts of vandalism.
Meanwhile, Abuja’s roadways are becoming increasingly perilous due to a rising number of stolen sewage manhole covers, prompting serious concerns from residents and authorities about safety risks associated with these illicit activities.
Just last week, multiple manhole covers were reported missing from various sites across the city, particularly along busy routes.
The absence of these covers creates hazardous open holes that pose significant dangers to motorists and pedestrians. Alarmingly, the thefts have been linked to several near-miss accidents, leading to urgent calls for action from local authorities.
In response to this troubling trend, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has condemned the thefts and emphasised the importance of community vigilance.
The acting executive secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana described the situation as unfortunate while visiting significant highways in the territory.
Meanwhile, the FCT Police Command announced on Monday that its operatives have arrested at least 50 suspects involved in the vandalism and theft of manhole covers within the territory.
Reports indicate that the suspects were apprehended at various “Panteka” hotspots in Kabusa, Garki, Mabushi, and Wuse.
The police have recovered around 25 manhole covers, three vehicles, vandalised solar streetlights, galvanised rods for constructing flyovers, tools associated with these criminal activities, and several other items.
FCT Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu provided details during a press briefing, revealing that investigations showed the suspects are part of a more extensive network that sells stolen manhole covers to scrap dealers.
“Our operatives conducted a targeted operation that led to the arrests of 50 suspects and the recovery of various items at Panteka hotspots around the territory,” stated Disu.
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