Suspected cable vandals apprehended in Lagos

Wednesday, July 1, 2026 - The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Command, has arrested several suspected cable vandals and other criminal suspects in separate operations across the state.

The suspects were paraded on Monday at the command headquarters located on Awolowo Road, Alausa, Ikeja.

According to the command, the arrests were made through intelligence-driven operations and sustained collaboration with local communities as well as private security organisations.

Speaking during the parade, the command’s Public Relations Officer, SC Oluwaseun Abolurin, disclosed that two suspects were apprehended on Saturday while allegedly vandalising armoured cables valued at millions of naira in the Okun Ajah area of Lagos.

Abolurin explained that the suspects were arrested following intelligence provided by residents of the community.

He added that Proton Security Limited alerted the NSCDC, prompting operatives of the command to swiftly mobilise to the scene.

According to him, two additional suspects linked to the vandalism operation escaped and are currently being tracked by security operatives.

“The two suspects who are at large can only run, but they cannot hide forever,” he said.

The NSCDC spokesman stressed that collaboration with local communities has continued to play a major role in combating infrastructure vandalism and related crimes.

“We got these arrests through intelligence gathering and consistent community engagement,” Abolurin stated.

He noted that the command had continued to strengthen partnerships with traditional rulers, youth organisations, market associations and private security firms across Lagos State.

Abolurin further disclosed that another suspect was arrested in connection with transformer cable vandalism in the Shogunle area of Oshodi on Friday.

He said investigations into the incident were ongoing.

The spokesman also revealed that operatives arrested suspects accused of stealing eight lithium batteries from Orchid Road in Lekki on June 15.

According to him, the suspects were apprehended at about 4:00 p.m. during ongoing investigations into the theft.

“We will ensure due diligence for prosecution and possible conviction through the court,” he said.

Abolurin added that several previous cases involving cable vandalism were already before the courts, including that of a 44-year-old suspect currently facing prosecution.

The NSCDC official also disclosed that operatives of the command apprehended two deserters from the Togolese Army, adding that they would be transferred to the appropriate authorities for further investigations.

He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, stressing that public cooperation remains essential in safeguarding critical national infrastructure.

Abolurin reaffirmed the commitment of the NSCDC to combating vandalism, infrastructure theft and other forms of economic sabotage across Lagos State.