The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has announced a six-month ban on all scrap-related activities across the state and ordered an immediate review of existing laws and policies regulating the sector.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, disclosed this in a statement issued in Calabar.

Ani said the government was alarmed by the rising cases of vandalism, theft and destruction of public infrastructure and private property in the state.

He said: “The Cross River State Government expresses grave concern over the alarming rise in vandalism, theft, and the destruction of public infrastructure and private property across Cross River State.

“Critical assets, including public utilities, road installations, and essential community facilities, have been deliberately targeted, resulting in service disruptions, economic losses, and heightened threats to public safety.”

According to him, investigations and security reports established a direct link between the destructive acts
and the activities of scrap dealers, scavengers and their agents operating in the state.

Ani added: “Given the urgency and severity of the situation, the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has di-
rected the immediate review of all laws, policies, and regulatory frameworks governing scrap-related activities in the
State.”

He said the measure was an interim step aimed at halting further damage, restoring order and safeguarding public and private assets.

“His Excellency has further approved the immediate suspension of all scrap-related activities in Cross River State for an initial period of six months,” he stated.