Martins Olasehinde
ABUJA – Four minors have been arrested for allegedly stealing iron rods from an uncompleted building in Nigerian capital, police said on Sunday.
The suspects, identified as 15-year-olds Matthew Vincent and Timothy Shedrack, 11-year-old Moses Vincent, and Lucky Enock, were apprehended following a complaint lodged at the Guzape Police Station, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command said.
“Residents reported suspicious activity at the construction site, noting that the minors were seen entering the building nightly,” police spokeswoman Josephine Adeh said in a statement.
“Witnesses described hearing loud noises and observing swift movements as the children dismantled parts of the structure. Preliminary investigations indicate the minors gained access by scaling the fence and used crude tools to remove the iron rods, which they reportedly sold to a local scrap dealer known as ‘Babanbola,’” Adeh explained.
The police spokeswoman stated that efforts are ongoing to locate Babanbola, who is suspected to be part of a broader network facilitating the theft and sale of construction materials in the area.
“This incident highlights the growing concern of juvenile delinquency in the Federal Capital Territory,” Adeh added.
She noted that the FCT Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu has urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities, particularly at night.
“He emphasised the importance of providing guidance to prevent criminal behaviour. Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly and support initiatives aimed at creating safer environments,” the police spokeswoman said.
She also advised business owners and scrap dealers to verify the sources of materials before making purchases and to report anyone attempting to sell stolen goods.
“Additionally, construction site owners were urged to enhance security measures, including deploying guards and installing surveillance systems,” she added.
Adeh noted that the minors would be taken to juvenile homes for rehabilitation.
“The minors will be moved to juvenile homes for rehabilitation, and those found culpable will face legal consequences,” she said.
She reiterated the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order across FCT.
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