The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended a truck loaded with suspected vandalized street light poles heading to Kano through the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The vehicle was intercepted by the men of the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Crack Team of the FCT Command of the NSCDC yesterday in Abuja during routine patrols around the Jabi area on surveillance.

“Rather than stop to provide an explanation, the driver and his assistant fled and abandoned the truck, which led to its impoundment,” the NSCDC FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, stated.

In a communiqué signed by the Command’s spokesperson, Monica Ojobi, Dr. Odumosu condemned the actions of vandals sabotaging government efforts to provide essential services.

He said, “We are resolute in our anti-vandalism campaign and will do everything possible through our renewed operational strategy to foil the activities of vandals and scavengers.”

Odumosu warned individuals involved in such acts, saying, “Those engaged in these nefarious activities will not be spared.

“They will face the full wrath of the law and serve jail terms if found guilty.”

The Commandant also urged pantaker (metal scraps) market leaders to distance themselves from buying or selling vandalized government property, warning that failure to comply could result in market closures.

Calling on market executives to adhere to regulatory guidelines and avoid dealing in stolen goods, he insisted that “When there is no demand, there can’t be any supply.”

Dr. Odumosu encouraged the public to help protect road infrastructure by driving carefully to prevent damage to street lights and other facilities.

He noted that “Persistent destruction of these national assets can lead to total darkness in the city, increasing the risk of accidents and endangering lives.”

Odumosu assured residents of his commitment to protecting the Command’s assets and urged them to report any vandalism or suspicious activity using the Command’s emergency numbers: 09166229882 or 08159066244.

He further announced that the case has been handed over to the Intelligence and Investigations Department of the agency for a thorough investigation into the ownership and source of the suspected items.

“Anyone found culpable will be prosecuted according to the law,” he added.