The FCT Police Command has announced the arrest of 50 suspects involved in the vandalism and theft of manhole covers within the Federal Capital Territory. The suspects were arrested during a targeted operation at various panteka hotspots in Kabusa, Garki, Mabushi, and Wuse.

The police recovered 25 galvanized manhole covers, three vehicles, vandalized solar street lights, galvanized rods used in the construction of flyovers, and several other exhibits. Investigations revealed that the suspects operate as part of a larger network, selling stolen manhole covers to scrap dealers.

According to the FCT Police Commissioner, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, “The diversity and volume of recovered items highlight the extensive and organized nature of these syndicates, whose activities have caused significant harm to public infrastructure projects and services in the FCT.”

Disu emphasized that the FCT Police Command and sister security agencies operate a zero-tolerance policy toward acts of vandalism and theft that undermine public infrastructure and safety. “We will continue to ensure that all those responsible for these criminal acts are brought to justice,” he said.

The suspects arrested include Bashir Usman, Shaibu Ibrahim, Sani Isah, Ibrahim Hassan, Mustapha Hassan, and 45 others. Exhibits recovered also include solar street lights, galvanized poles, high voltage AEDC cables, locally made pistols, live cartridges, and several other items.