In a decisive move to curb the incessant vandalism of armored cables and other railway equipment along the Abuja mass transit rail, Safeguard Security and Protection Company, the private guard company entrusted with safeguarding the rail infrastructure, announced the arrest of 13 individuals connected to these criminal activities.

Among the apprehended suspects, 10 were identified as casual workers employed by a Chinese company engaged in railway construction. These individuals allegedly exploited their work positions to pilfer essential materials, compromising the integrity of the railway system.

Managing Director and Chief Executive of Safeguard Security and Protection Company, Hon. Segun Adekola, disclosed that the company has diligently executed its duties over the years, resulting in the apprehension of over 100 suspected vandals. Expressing concern, Adekola highlighted the issue of past offenders being released on bail, with some returning to commit the same crimes.

“We have been working with relevant stakeholders in the discharge of our duties, and acting on a tip-off, we were able to effect the arrest of these people, and we are ready to do more,” stated Adekola during a press conference in Abuja.

The suspects, now in custody, are slated to be handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further profiling and prosecution.

James Chukwu, Director of Operations at Safeguard Security and Protection Company, explained that their operatives have expanded efforts to apprehend not only vandals but also buyers of stolen rail components. Chukwu emphasized the company’s commitment to securing the Abuja railway lines by covering various stations and tracks.

“We have about 10 vandals while the others are buyers,” Chukwu asserted, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the security measures implemented by the private guard company.

Chukwu revealed that the Chinese company, implicated in the theft, has been contacted and is cooperating with ongoing investigations. One of the detained suspects, identified as Obadiah, admitted to working for the Chinese company, explaining that they were tasked with removing worn-out cables. He acknowledged diverting some of these materials for personal gain, selling them to an undisclosed company.

As the investigation progresses, the collaboration between Safeguard Security and Protection Company, law enforcement, and the Chinese company is expected to shed further light on the extent of the criminal activities and provide a basis for prosecution. (Courtesy, excluding headline, Daily Independent)