The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested a 39 year old man, Anuba Chisom, over the alleged vandalism of an IHS MTN telecommunications mast at Okpuno, near the Nnamdi Azikiwe University temporary site in Awka.
The suspect, who hails from Amaputa in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, was reportedly arrested at about 4 a.m. on Thursday following credible intelligence received by operatives during routine patrol. According to a report by The Punch, the NSCDC State Commandant, Olatunde Maku, disclosed the arrest while presenting the suspect at the command headquarters in Awka.
Maku explained that operatives attached to the command’s Anti Vandal Unit responded to information about suspicious movement inside a telecommunications mast with identification number IHS_ANA_0888A, located in Awka South Local Government Area, close to Igwe Okpuno’s palace.
He said the operatives apprehended the suspect at the scene and recovered vandalised cables and other components belonging to the facility. Preliminary investigations, according to the commandant, indicated that the suspect might be connected to a wider network involved in the vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure across the state.
Maku further disclosed that the suspect had allegedly admitted to vandalising two other sites before his arrest, attributing his actions to unemployment. However, the allegations remain subject to further investigation and judicial determination.
The commandant commended the operatives for their vigilance and warned individuals involved in the destruction of critical infrastructure that the corps would intensify efforts to bring offenders to justice.
He also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support the protection of public and private assets.
Maku has directed a thorough investigation into the case, after which the suspect is expected to be charged before a competent court. The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding telecommunications facilities, which are essential for communication and economic activities.
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