FCT police nab four minors for iron rod theft

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has taken four minors into custody for allegedly stealing iron rods from an uncompleted building in the Guzape area of Abuja.

The minors, identified as Matthew Vincent, 15; Timothy Shedrack, 15; Moses Vincent, 11; and Lucky Enoch, 11, were apprehended after a complaint was lodged at the Guzape Police Station.

Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police spokesperson, stated that the arrests followed reports of suspicious activities at the construction site.

According to her, the minors were seen entering the uncompleted building at night and scaling the perimeter fence to gain access to the premises.

“Witnesses described hearing loud noises and observing swift movements as the children dismantled parts of the structure,” she said.

Adeh further disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed the minors used crude tools to dismantle the iron rods, which they reportedly sold to a local scrap dealer known as ‘Babanbola.’

“This incident highlights the growing concern of juvenile delinquency in the Federal Capital Territory,” Adeh added.

The FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has called on parents and guardians to monitor their children and wards closely. He also emphasized the importance of creating a safer environment for minors.

Adeh advised business owners and scrap dealers to verify the sources of their materials to ensure they are legitimate. She also recommended that construction site owners deploy security guards and implement additional security measures to prevent theft.

She said that the minors would be taken to juvenile homes for rehabilitation.
“The minors will be moved to juvenile homes for rehabilitation,” she said.