In a dramatic crackdown on public infrastructure theft, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, in collaboration with multiple security agencies, arrested 31 individuals allegedly involved in the theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure worth over ₦1 billion in Abuja. The arrest came after a series of coordinated raids across key locations, including scrap yards and illicit markets notorious for trafficking stolen public property.
The sting operation, dubbed “Operation Sweep,” was launched as a direct response to escalating reports of infrastructure destruction, which have been wreaking havoc on essential services and causing untold disruption to the lives of Abuja residents. Among the items seized were 115 manhole covers, transformer components, and industrial solar batteries, all of which were stolen from power stations and public utility sites.
Tunji Disu, the FCT Commissioner of Police, revealed the details of the arrests during a press briefing held on Friday, highlighting the significant efforts of the joint task force, which included the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other law enforcement agencies.
“We are seeing unprecedented levels of damage to our city’s infrastructure, and this operation is just the beginning of our relentless effort to curb these criminal activities,” said Disu. “This operation not only targets the criminals directly involved but also the scrap dealers and markets that facilitate the trade of stolen goods.”
The crackdown, which began with a directive from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, followed a core-security meeting convened on January 13, 2025, where urgent measures were agreed upon to combat the growing menace. As part of the operation, all scrap yards, also known as ‘Pantaker’ markets, were shut down for two weeks to dismantle the illicit trade in stolen public infrastructure. The FCT administration has vowed to continue these aggressive measures until these markets are completely wiped out.
Over the course of the operation, raids were carried out in several notorious areas, including Dei-Dei, Zuba, Nyanya, and Kabusa, among others. During these raids, security agencies recovered a staggering quantity of stolen public assets, including solar panels, fibre optic cables, cement bags, security doors, and even fake Mercedes-Benz vehicle chassis numbers.
One of the most alarming discoveries was the significant number of stolen transformer components and armoured cables, which have caused widespread power outages across several parts of Abuja. According to officials from the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), these stolen items were directly linked to blackouts in areas like Dawaki, Mpape, Nyanya, and Karu.
“The theft of transformer components and other electrical parts has caused immense disruptions in power supply,” an AEDC official revealed. “These criminals have essentially robbed residents of basic services, and we are grateful for the police’s decisive action in recovering these vital resources.”
Sixteen of the arrested suspects have already been charged to court for criminal conspiracy, vandalism, and receiving stolen public property, all offenses punishable under Section 332 of the Nigerian Penal Code. Among those charged are Abubakar Adamu, Emmanuel John Eze, and Ahmad Suleiman. These individuals are believed to be among the masterminds behind the widespread theft operation.
“This is a strong message to all who engage in the theft and destruction of public property. We will track down every single person involved, and they will face the full weight of the law,” said Disu, reiterating the commitment of law enforcement agencies to bring all culprits to justice.
The Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML) has already announced plans to require scrap dealers to undergo profiling and registration on February 5, 2025, at Wuse Zone 6. This move is aimed at ensuring that all scrap dealers are properly documented and that their goods are verified for legitimacy.
Furthermore, authorities have imposed a strict ban on scavengers, locally known as Baban Bola, and have warned business operators in the scrap metal industry to exercise extreme caution when acquiring goods. Ignorance will not be accepted as an excuse, and anyone caught selling, receiving, or storing stolen government property will face immediate arrest and prosecution.
“We are setting up a framework to hold businesses accountable,” stated Disu. “This is not just about law enforcement; it’s about ensuring that the entire supply chain is scrutinized to stop stolen items from entering the market.”
The FCT Police Commissioner expressed his appreciation to all the security agencies involved in the operation and confirmed that there would be no let-up in the efforts to fight vandalism and theft in the capital.
“Together with our partners, we will continue to monitor the situation and carry out surprise checks on warehouses and market stalls,” Disu affirmed.
The scale of the recovery, which includes over ₦1 billion worth of infrastructure, marks one of the largest anti-vandalism operations in FCT history. As of now, authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious activities involving the theft of public property, with a particular focus on scrap yards and markets.
The crackdown on public infrastructure theft comes as a major relief to Abuja residents, who have been grappling with repeated power outages, poor drainage systems, and the destruction of critical public amenities. The police have stressed that the operation is a direct response to the growing wave of criminality that threatens to undermine the city’s progress.
Residents, meanwhile, have welcomed the operation, with many voicing their support for stronger measures to safeguard the city’s infrastructure. “It’s good to see the government and police taking action,” said Sarah Adamu, a resident of Mpape. “These thieves have caused so much trouble in our community, and it’s time they are held accountable for the damage they’ve done.”
The FCT Police Command has also reiterated that all security agencies will continue working together to ensure that the perpetrators of these criminal activities face the law. Residents are being urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police or the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
