Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have arrested four minors for allegedly stealing iron rods from an uncompleted building site in the Guzape area of Abuja.
The suspects—Matthew Vincent (15), Timothy Shedrack (15), Moses Vincent (11), and Lucky Enock—were apprehended after a complaint was filed at the Guzape Police Station.
The police revealed that local residents had reported suspicious activity at the construction site, noting that the minors were frequently seen entering the building during the night.
FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed that witnesses reported hearing loud noises and observing rapid movements as the children dismantled parts of the structure.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the minors accessed the site by scaling the fence and used crude tools to remove the iron rods, which they later sold to a local scrap dealer known as “Babanbola.”
“Efforts are underway to locate the individual referred to as Babanbola, who is suspected to be part of a larger network involved in the theft and resale of construction materials in the area,” said Adeh.
This incident highlights the rising concern of juvenile delinquency in the Federal Capital Territory.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities, especially during late hours.
He emphasized the importance of providing guidance to prevent such criminal behaviour and encouraged community members to report suspicious activities promptly.
Disu also called on business owners, particularly scrap metal dealers, to verify the source of materials before purchasing them and to report any attempts to sell stolen goods.
“Construction site owners should enhance security measures by deploying guards and installing surveillance systems,” he advised.
The police commissioner reassured the public that law enforcement agencies remain committed to maintaining order throughout the territory.
The minors will be placed in juvenile homes for rehabilitation, and any parties found complicit will face legal action.
“This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to prevent juvenile crime,” Disu added.
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