Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Troops of the Nigerian Army operating in the Tsamaye general area of Sokoto State have arrested six suspected vandals and recovered a stolen electric transformer during a security operation aimed at protecting critical national infrastructure.
Military sources disclosed that the operation was carried out following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected vandals operating within communities in the area.
Acting swiftly on the information, the troops conducted a targeted operation, which led to the arrest of six suspects believed to be involved in the theft and vandalism of public utility installations.
During the operation, the troops recovered an electric transformer suspected to have been stolen from a nearby community. The transformer was found in the possession of the suspects and has since been secured by the military pending further investigation.
Security sources said the suspects are currently in custody and are being interrogated to ascertain the extent of their involvement in the crime, as well as identify other members of the vandalism network operating in the area.
The recovery of the transformer is expected to ease concerns among residents who have been affected by disruptions in electricity supply resulting from the activities of vandals targeting power infrastructure.
Military authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding critical national assets and warned criminal elements against engaging in acts of sabotage capable of undermining public services and economic activities.
Residents have also been urged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to combat vandalism, theft and other forms of criminality across the state.
The arrest and recovery underscore the Nigerian Army’s sustained efforts to maintain security and protect essential infrastructure in communities across the North-West region.
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