The Lagos State Police Command has arrested five suspected telecommunications vandals and recovered a truckload of iron rods believed to have been stolen in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state.
The suspects were allegedly caught stealing iron poles meant for the construction of telecommunications masts before they were intercepted while transporting the items in a truck, according to the police.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, identified the suspects as Mohammed Shaibu, 26; Musa Zakari, 29; Abdullahi Bala, 22; Salisu Musa, 18; and Yahuza Bala, 20.
Adebisi said the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba.
She added that a discreet investigation had commenced to identify and arrest other suspects who allegedly fled the scene, as well as determine the full extent of the group’s activities.
According to the police spokesperson, the operation formed part of the command’s intensified efforts to combat vandalism and the theft of critical infrastructure across Lagos State.
The operation was also supported by the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring that those found responsible for vandalism are brought to justice.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities within their communities.
The police also encouraged members of the public to report emergencies through the command’s designated emergency lines.
