The Niger State government has vowed not to allow criminal elements disguised as scrap traders to continue vandalising structures and stealing valuables across the state.

Governor Muhammad Umaru Bago issued the warning during a meeting with the leadership of the state chapter of the Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria at the Government House, Minna.

The meeting was convened to address the growing cases of vandalism and theft of public and private property by suspected criminals posing as members of the association.

Bago expressed concern over the trend and urged the leadership to sanitise the union by adopting measures to identify its members and expel bad actors correctly.

He disclosed plans for another meeting with critical stakeholders of the association, including representatives from the 25 local councils, alongside security agencies, to review operational guidelines. He further warned that an executive bill would be sent to the State Assembly to ensure violators face prosecution.

The governor also directed the state task force to intensify surveillance, particularly at major entry and exit points, to prevent the movement of uncertified scraps.

Responding, the chairman of the state chapter of the association, Mohammed Ahmed, announced plans to introduce uniforms and identity cards for members to curb unethical practices.

He highlighted challenges facing the body, including refusal by some local councils to register dealers and inadequate financing to mobilise the task force for patrols.

Ahmed thanked the governor for convening the meeting and sought the government’s support in achieving the goal of preventing the purchase and sale of stolen scrap items.