NSCDC arrests ex-AEDC worker, others over N350m cable theft

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended a former Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) employee, Isaac Zegbe, and other suspects for the alleged vandalism and theft of electricity cables worth over N350 million. Zegbe, aged 25, was among several accomplices arrested by NSCDC operatives during intelligence-driven operations across several Federal Capital Territory (FCT) states.

The National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Babawale Afolabi, announced the arrests during a press conference at the Corps' headquarters in Abuja and the site of the cable vandalism in Yangoji, Kwali Area Council of the FCT. The suspects were responsible for cutting over 15 kilometres of aluminium conductors from Yangoji to Abaji, which were subsequently sold to marketers in various FCT markets.

Following a sting operation, the NSCDC recovered a significant portion of the stolen cables at Gudu Market and arrested at least one suspect, Chijoke Christian, who admitted to knowingly purchasing the cables. The NSCDC also secured a court order to seal the shops of merchants involved in the purchase of the stolen cables. Additionally, the Corps dismantled a four-man syndicate specializing in Toyota vehicle theft in the FCT and neighbouring states, and arrested four suspected members of an armed robbery gang.

The NSCDC further recovered a trafficked child, Micaiah Nana, whose alleged traffickers were apprehended. The arrested individuals are set to be charged in court following further investigations.