Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has detained a suspect (name withheld) for allegedly vandalising railway facilities in Bauchi State.
The corps also recovered vandalised railway sleepers, bolts and nuts, worth millions of naira in the last five days.
The Commandant, Mr Oloyede Oyerinde stated this at a news conference yesterday in Bauchi.
He said the corps recorded significant progress in the campaign against vandalism, pursuant to its commitment to protect critical national assets and infrastructure.
“On Tuesday, April 15 at approximately 1000hrs, following credible intelligence from the Department of State Services, DSS, Alkaleri Division, operatives of the corps responded swiftly to a report of railway track vandalism at New Gwaram, along Gombe Road.
“Although the suspects had fled the scene before our arrival, we were able to recover some exhibits,” he said.
Oyerinde said operatives also recovered more vandalised materials in a follow-up operation at Cross Tasha, Faruqu and Taliyaje areas of Tubule Ward in Kirfi Local Government Area.
He said the operatives recovered a white Peugeot J5 vehicle loaded with vandalised railway materials, including 53 railway sleepers with bolts and nuts, 14 railway fish plates and 20 bags of charcoal.
“Our team successfully arrested a 45-year-old male suspect (name withheld) for the unlawful dismantling and sale of railway track components,” he said.
While commending the personnel for their diligence and timely response, Oyerinde warned vandals to stay clear of the state.
“We will not tolerate vandalism of public property in Bauchi State. Those who engage in such criminal acts will face the full wrath of the law.”
According to Oyerinde, the suspect will be charged to court on completion of investigation and urged residents to report suspicious persons and activities to security agencies.
“Timely and accurate information remains a critical tool in defeating crime and safeguarding our communities,” he said. (NAN)
