{
  "id": 2256838,
  "title": "10 arrested as vandals steal 1,800 manholes on coastal highway",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/10-arrested-as-vandals-steal-1-800-manholes-on-coastal-highway",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-21T00:16:48.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/10-arrested-as-vandals-steal-1800-manholes-on-coastal-highway/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ten individuals have been arrested in Lagos, Nigeria for alleged involvement in the theft of 1,800 manhole covers and other infrastructure from the newly built Coastal Road. The arrests were made following intelligence from investigations into the vandalism. Police Commissioner Fatai Tijani disclosed the arrests during a press conference, revealing the suspects' ages and identities. Vandalised iron materials were recovered during the operation. Tijani stated the command is collaborating with relevant authorities to hold accountable those responsible for the destruction and theft of public infrastructure. Additionally, a 28-year-old man was arrested for stealing CCTV camera cables, irons, and other infrastructure from the Third Mainland Bridge. The Federal Controller of Works, Olufemi Dare, reported that over 1,800 manhole covers and 1,000 meters of clear-view fence have been stolen from the Coastal Road project between January and August 2026. The destruction of infrastructure is undermining the purpose of the new road, and authorities are working with the police to address the issue.",
  "summary": "Lagos Police arrest 10 suspects linked to extensive Coastal Road vandalism, including the theft of 1,800 manholes and 1km of fencing. Authorities vow to pr Read More: https://punchng.com/10-arrested-as-vandals-steal-1800-manholes-on-coastal-highway/",
  "key_points": [
    "Ten individuals arrested for stealing 1,800 manhole covers and infrastructure.",
    "Lagos police recovered vandalized iron materials during operation.",
    "Over 1,800 manhole covers and 1,000 meters of fence stolen from Coastal Road project."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The arrests mark a step towards holding individuals accountable for the large-scale theft and vandalism of public infrastructure, which is undermining the purpose of the newly built Coastal Road.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}