Police Arrest 4 Minors For Stealing At Construction Site In Abuja
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, identified as Matthew Vincent (15), Timothy Shedrack (15), Moses Vincent (11), and Lucky Enock, were apprehended following a report made to the Guzape Police Station. According to the FCT Police PRO, SP Josephine Adeh, residents had noticed suspicious activity at the construction site, with the minors frequently seen entering the building during the night.
Witnesses reported hearing loud noises and observing rapid movements as the children dismantled parts of the structure. Preliminary investigations revealed that the minors gained access by scaling the fence and used crude tools to remove the iron rods. They then sold the stolen materials to a local scrap dealer known as “Babanbola.”
The police are working to locate Babanbola, who is believed to be part of a larger network involved in the theft and sale of construction materials in the area. The incident highlights concerns over juvenile delinquency in the FCT.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has called on parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities, especially late at night, and to provide the necessary guidance to prevent criminal behavior. He also urged community members to report any suspicious activities to help create safer environments.
Additionally, the Commissioner advised business owners and scrap metal dealers to verify the sources of materials before making purchases and to report anyone attempting to sell stolen goods. Construction site owners were encouraged to enhance security measures, including deploying guards and installing surveillance systems.
The minors are to be transferred to juvenile homes for rehabilitation, and those found culpable will face legal consequences. The police remain committed to maintaining law and order, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to deter juvenile crime.
