NSCDC Arrests Suspect Over Alleged Awka Telecom Mast Vandalism

 

By Atlantic Reports

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has arrested a 39-year-old man, Chisom Anuba, over alleged vandalism of an IHS-MTN telecommunications installation in Okpuno, Awka.

State Commandant Mr Maku Olatunde announced the arrest during a briefing with journalists in Awka on Thursday.

He said operatives apprehended Anuba at about 4 a.m. on October 15 after receiving information about unusual movement inside the facility.

According to Olatunde, an anti-vandal team on routine patrol responded to the tip-off and found the suspect at the site with damaged cables and other components.

The installation is in Awka South Local Government Area, near the palace of the traditional ruler of Okpuno.

Alleged Links to Other Incidents

Olatunde said preliminary investigations suggested that Anuba belonged to a group involved in vandalism in the state.

He also alleged that the suspect admitted involvement in the incident and damage to two other sites, attributing his actions to unemployment.

These claims remain the command’s account of its investigation. Anuba’s response was not independently available in the supplied material, and the alleged admissions have not been tested in court.

Further Investigation Ordered

Olatunde said he had ordered a thorough investigation, after which the suspect would be charged to court.

He warned against damage to public and private infrastructure and urged residents to provide timely information about suspicious activity.

The command did not disclose the value of the damaged equipment, whether telecommunications services were disrupted or whether other suspects had been identified.

Anuba remains a suspect and is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.