NSCDC arrests five for vandalising transformers, streetlights in Ilorin

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has arrested five suspected vandals for allegedly stealing transformer and streetlight cables in the Tanke area of Ilorin, the state capital.

The suspects Samson Akintola (21), Muhammed Zakariya (19), Mohammed Monsur (20), Ibrahim Hamida (19), and Kabir Abubakar (24) were apprehended around 1 a.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, during a joint operation between NSCDC operatives from the Tanke Division and members of the Tanke Community Vigilante Group.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Corps’ Public Relations Officer, ASC 1 Ayoola Shola, the suspects were intercepted with vandalised transformer and streetlight cables believed to have been stolen from the Asa Dam and Sapati areas of Ilorin.

“Items recovered include vandalised transformer cables, streetlight cables and burnt copper wires.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had been involved in willful vandalisation and theft of public electrical installations, an offence contrary to Section 1(9) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, Cap M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

“The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon completion of investigations,” the statement added, noting that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices connected to the crime.

Speaking on the arrest, the State Commandant of NSCDC, Dr Umar Mohammed, warned against vandalism of public infrastructure, stressing that such acts undermine development and expose communities to blackout and insecurity.

“We are committed to protecting all critical national assets and infrastructure in Kwara State.

“Let this serve as a warning to others: anyone caught sabotaging public utilities will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.

The NSCDC command reiterated its readiness to work with community vigilantes and residents to safeguard public installations across the state.