Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested five suspected telecommunication vandals and recovered a truckload of suspected stolen iron rods in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state, dealing a significant blow to the criminal networks that have targeted critical infrastructure across Nigeria's commercial capital. The suspects were identified as Mohammed Shaibu, 26; Musa Zakari, 29; Abdullahi Bala, 22; Salisu Musa, 18; and Yahuza Bala, 20. According to the police, the suspects were allegedly caught stealing iron poles intended for the construction of telecommunication masts and were subsequently arrested while conveying the stolen materials in a truck.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Adebisi stated that the operation was carried out as part of the command's intensified efforts to curb the vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure across Lagos. The suspects are currently in police custody, while the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, for further investigation. “Discreet investigation is ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects and unravel the full extent of their activities,” the police statement read in part.
The command acknowledged the support of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, saying the robust synergy and cooperation between both security agencies contributed significantly to the successful operation and the arrest of the suspects. The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, reaffirmed the command's determination to protect critical infrastructure and ensure that those responsible for vandalism are brought to justice. He also encouraged residents to provide credible information to the police whenever they notice suspicious activities within their communities. Members of the public were encouraged to report emergencies through the command's emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, 08080193432 (Marine), and 09168630929.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns over the vandalism of critical infrastructure across Lagos State. In a related development, the Lagos State Police Command had earlier arrested 12 suspects in connection with the vandalism of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, where vandals removed approximately 1,800 drainage covers, destroyed about one kilometre of clear-view fence, and stole 75 directional signs. The Federal Government and the Lagos State Police Command have declared war on vandals targeting the highway, with the police recovering vandalised iron materials and locally made firearms. Between January and August 2026, criminals had removed about 1,800 manhole covers, broken reinforcement structures and stolen iron materials from the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road.
The recurring incidents of infrastructure vandalism have raised serious concerns about the security of public assets and the economic impact of such criminal activities. The theft of iron poles intended for telecommunication masts, as in the case of the five suspects arrested in Ibeju-Lekki, threatens the integrity of the nation's telecommunications network, which is vital for economic activities, security operations, and social connectivity. The involvement of young suspects, aged between 18 and 29, highlights the urgent need for community-based interventions to address the root causes of youth involvement in crime and to promote alternative livelihoods.
The collaboration between the Lagos State Police Command and the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army demonstrates the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation in tackling organised crime. Such synergy is crucial in a megacity like Lagos, where criminal networks often operate across multiple jurisdictions and require a coordinated response from security agencies. The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, emphasising that community participation is essential to the success of efforts to protect critical infrastructure.
As the investigation continues, the five suspects remain in police custody, and the police have vowed to apprehend other fleeing suspects and establish the full extent of their activities. The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its resolve to protect critical infrastructure and bring perpetrators of vandalism to justice. The public is encouraged to continue providing credible information to support the police in their efforts to curb the vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure across the state.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments