The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old man, Chigozirim Elem, for allegedly vandalising government property and stealing iron doors from unallocated shops at the Ubani Government Market in Umuahia.

The suspect, who hails from Amasiri in Afikpo North Local Council of Ebonyi State but resides in Ugwunchara, Umuahia North Local Council of Abia State, was apprehended by operatives of the Mike Okiro Divisional Police Headquarters.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the arrest followed actionable intelligence and a joint operation involving the police and members of the local vigilante group.

According to her, the suspect unlawfully gained access to four unallocated shops at the government-owned market on July 11, where he allegedly damaged the premises and removed four double iron doors and one single iron door.

She said the suspect attempted to flee on sighting the security operatives but was swiftly arrested, while the stolen items were recovered.

Chinaka disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation, adding that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

She reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting public infrastructure and maintaining law and order across the state.

The police also urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency hotlines.