By: Bayero Ade
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has apprehended four minors for allegedly stealing iron rods from an uncompleted building in the Guzape area of Abuja.
The command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday. The suspects—Matthew Vincent and Timothy Shedrack, both aged 15, along with Moses Vincent and Lucky Enock, aged 11—were arrested after residents reported suspicious activities at the construction site.
According to the complaint lodged at the Guzape Police Station, the minors were observed visiting the site late at night. Witnesses reported hearing loud noises and noticing quick movements as the children dismantled parts of the structure.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the minors gained entry by scaling the fence and used crude tools to remove iron rods, which they allegedly sold to a local scrap dealer known as “Babanbola.”
Ms. Adeh stated that efforts are underway to locate “Babanbola,” who is suspected of being part of a broader network involved in the theft and resale of construction materials in the area.
“This incident underscores the increasing concern of juvenile delinquency in the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.
The Commissioner of Police for the FCT, Olatunji Disu, urged parents and guardians to keep a closer watch on their children’s activities, especially at night. He also advised business owners and scrap dealers to verify the sources of materials before making purchases to discourage such crimes.
Ms. Adeh added that the minors would be transferred to juvenile homes for rehabilitation, and those found culpable would face legal action.
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