NSCDC Arrests 24-Year-Old Suspected Mast Vandal in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested a 24-year-old man suspected of vandalising a telecommunications mast and stealing vital equipment in Awka, the state capital.

The suspect, identified as Nweke Friday Wisdom, a native of Izzi South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was arrested at about 7:20 a.m. on Thursday at Esther Obiakor Estate, Agu-Awka, following a distress call received by the Corps.

The Anambra State Commandant of the NSCDC, Maku Olatunde, disclosed the arrest on Thursday at the Command’s headquarters in Awka.

According to Maku, the suspect was apprehended with items allegedly removed from the telecommunications mast installation, including DC cables and armoured cables.

He said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly specialised in vandalising telecommunications masts and stealing valuable equipment from the installations.

“Meanwhile, the suspect has made useful confessions and will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded,” Maku said.

The Commandant reiterated the Corps’ commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure across Anambra State, warning individuals involved in vandalism to desist from such activities.

Maku said the NSCDC would continue to work with relevant stakeholders to safeguard telecommunications infrastructure, which he described as vital to the state’s communication and economic activities.

He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities around telecommunications facilities and other critical infrastructure.

“Public cooperation remains crucial to protecting critical national assets and improving security across the state,” he said.

The NSCDC urged residents to provide timely information that could assist security agencies in preventing vandalism, theft and other criminal activities.

The suspect is expected to face prosecution after the completion of the ongoing investigation.

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