Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Olusola Odumosu, yesterday paraded 37 scavengers who were arrested across the nation’s capital as part of the ongoing effort to combat criminal activities associated with the practice.
Parading the suspects, Dr. Odumosu explained that the operation was part of a broader initiative aimed at curbing vandalism, theft and other criminal behaviours attributed to scavengers, often known as “Babanbola.”
He said the arrest followed recent government directives, including an announcement on January 13, 2025 by the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike.
The minister had announced the suspension of commercial activities in pantaker markets for two weeks and banned scavengers from roaming the streets, following concerns over rising cases of vandalism and theft across the city.
The NSCDC commandant emphasised that many of the arrested scavengers were linked to organised criminal activities such as the vandalism of public infrastructure, including manhole covers, streetlights and cables which they sell for profit.
Odumosu further explained that these individuals often move from house to house, estate to estate, scavenging for metals and other valuable materials. He said, “However, investigations revealed that their true activities go beyond legitimate scavenging, involving serious criminal acts that endanger the safety and security of residents.
“Many of these scavengers are involved in vandalism, stealing valuable infrastructure that costs the government millions to replace,” Dr. Odumosu said. “They also rob unsuspecting pedestrians and residents and are often armed with dangerous weapons.
“In some cases, scavengers have acted as informants for other criminal gangs, including kidnappers and bandits, providing them critical intelligence on potential targets.
This revelation has raised further concerns about the growing criminal networks operating in the city, facilitated by seemingly innocent individuals,” he added.
Odumosu stressed the importance of public cooperation in eliminating this threat, urging residents to report suspicious activities and avoid giving alms or supporting scavengers. He reiterated that although these individuals may appear harmless, they are involved in serious criminal activities and contribute to the rising crime rate in the FCT.
He added, “We are reiterating that in line with the FCT administration’s policies, scavenging has been banned throughout the city and its suburbs, both during the day and at night. The NSCDC has placed a strong emphasis on directing all scavengers to official dumpsites where they are permitted to conduct their activities. Odumosu warned that anyone found in violation of the ban would be arrested and prosecuted.”
He also revealed that the recent operation led to the recovery of several dangerous items, including knives, daggers, narcotics and various stolen goods. Among the recovered exhibits were four daggers, three jack knives, 45 wraps of Indian hemp and several iron rods, underscoring the perilous nature of the criminals involved.
Odumosu assured residents that the NSCDC would continue to work closely with other security agencies, including the FCT Joint Task Force to root out these criminal elements. He called on the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
“The NSCDC will not relent in its mission to rid the FCT of these dangerous scavengers. Our officers are on the ground, and we will continue to make arrests to ensure the safety of all residents,” he added.
He added that the crackdown is expected to extend to scavenger colonies around the FCT, with ongoing efforts to restore peace, order, and security throughout the region. Dr. Odumosu urged all FCT residents to join hands with the security agencies, as the fight against crime in the capital intensifies.
