The Lagos State Police Command has arrested five suspected thieves for allegedly stealing iron poles meant for the construction of telecommunication masts in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state.

The suspects, identified as 29-year-old Musa Zakari, 26-year-old Mohammed Shaibu, 22-year-old Abdullahi Bala, 18-year-old Salisu Musa and 20-year-old Yahuza Bala, were arrested while allegedly transporting the stolen iron rods in a truck.

The arrest was made as part of the command’s intensified efforts to curb the vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure across Lagos.

The suspects are currently in police custody, while the case is being investigated by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba.

The spokesperson for the command, Abimbola Adebisi, said discreet investigations were ongoing to apprehend other suspects who fled the scene and determine the full extent of the gang’s activities.

Adebisi commended the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army for its cooperation, which she said contributed significantly to the successful operation and arrest of the suspects.

She urged members of the public to report emergencies and suspicious activities through the Lagos State Police Command’s emergency lines.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and bringing perpetrators of vandalism to justice.

He also urged residents to provide credible and timely information about suspicious activities in their communities to enable the police to respond promptly.