The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has arrested several suspected cable vandals and other criminal suspects in a series of intelligence-led operations across the state, marking a significant step in the fight against infrastructure sabotage. The suspects were paraded on Monday at the command headquarters on Awolowo Road, Alausa, Ikeja, where officials detailed the arrests and ongoing efforts to secure critical national infrastructure. The operations were made possible through close collaboration with local communities and private security agencies, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in crime prevention.
According to SC Oluwaseun Abolurin, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, two suspects were apprehended on Saturday while allegedly vandalising armoured cables in the Okun Ajah area of Lagos. These cables, valued at millions of naira, are vital to the state’s power and communication networks. The arrest followed credible intelligence provided by residents, who promptly alerted Proton Security Limited, which then notified the NSCDC. The security operatives swiftly mobilised and intercepted the suspects at the scene, demonstrating the effectiveness of real-time intelligence sharing.
Abolurin confirmed that two other suspects involved in the same operation managed to escape and are currently being tracked by NSCDC operatives. “The two suspects who are at large can only run, but they cannot hide forever,” he stated, underscoring the command’s determination to bring all perpetrators to justice. He emphasized that community engagement and intelligence gathering remain central to the command’s strategy in combating vandalism and related crimes.
In another incident, a suspect was arrested on Friday in connection with the vandalism of transformer cables in the Shogunle area of Oshodi. Investigations into this case are ongoing, with authorities working to identify other individuals involved. Additionally, on June 15, NSCDC operatives apprehended suspects accused of stealing eight lithium batteries from Orchid Road in Lekki. The arrest occurred at around 4:00 p.m. during an active investigation into the theft.
Abolurin noted that several previous cases involving cable vandalism are already before the courts, including the prosecution of a 44-year-old suspect. He also revealed that two deserters from the Togolese Army were apprehended by NSCDC operatives and would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. The NSCDC official urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence, stressing that public cooperation is essential in safeguarding national infrastructure.
The command remains committed to tackling infrastructure theft, economic sabotage, and other criminal activities across Lagos State. As the state continues to face challenges related to vandalism, the NSCDC’s proactive approach and community partnerships offer hope for improved security and protection of vital assets.
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