NSCDC Launches Clampdown on Scavengers Destroying Public Utilities in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command has issued a stern warning to iron scavengers, also known as “ndi akpakara” or “iron kwandem”, to cease from destroying public and private properties in the state or face severe legal consequences.

The State Commandant, Comdt Maku Olatunde stated this through Superintendent of Corps, Okadigbo Edwin, Head of Media and Tactical Ops at the State Command Headquarters Awka while parading a suspect arrested by the command in collaboration with operatives of AVG Onitsha South LGA.

He ordered the Intelligence/ Investigation department to conduct further investigations, upon conclusion, the suspect would be charged to court.

According to Maku, “On March 4, 2025, at about 17:45hrs, one Zakari Yahui, male , aged 25 from Misau town, Misau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, was apprehended at Silas Street, Fegge Onitsha. He was caught destroying and breaking the walls of the gutter, pulling out the iron rods, with an intent to sell them as scrap.

“The suspect confessed to the crime admitting to vandalism of multiple metal objects and selling them in separate transactions to a scrap vendor.

The NSCDC State helmsman assured that the command would continue to work tirelessly to ensure those involved in destruction of public utilities, private properties and vandalism of critical national state, and local government assets were brought to justice, while their collaborators, those buying or selling vandalized materials, would not be spared.

“The Command is out to stop the activities of those who want to sabotage and destroy properties belonging to either government or individuals” he concluded.