The Federal Capital Territory Command has arraigned 16 suspects before the Chief Magistrate Court, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, for vandalism and theft of public infrastructure.
The suspects appeared before the court on January 22, following the crackdown on scrap yards (commonly known as panteka), culminating in multiple arrests.
The arraigned suspects include Abubakar Adamu, Emmanuel John Eze, Emeka Ezekiel, Ahmad Suleiman, Dennis Chigozie, Ismail Usman, Victor Ezeokoye, Izundu Fidelis, Alex Eddy and Jonathan Obi.
Others are Simon Samuel, Mubarak Lawal, Okafor Ekene, Usman Lawal, Shuaibu Yahaya and James Edu
Upon arraignment, the suspects entered “not guilty” pleas and were remanded at the Keffi Correctional Centre, pending further proceedings.
The case was adjourned to January 30 for continued hearing.
“This operation underscores the unwavering commitment of the FCT Police Command to safeguarding public infrastructure and holding criminal elements accountable for their actions.
“The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, has reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to maintaining law and order while urging residents to actively support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities promptly.
“The battle against the desecration of public infrastructure is not one for the Police alone—it is a collective duty. Together, we can protect the lifelines of our communities,” said the command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh.
