The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command, has arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Obasi Ifesinachi, for allegedly vandalising critical national infrastructure in Iju Community, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State. The arrest was announced by the command's Public Relations Officer, SC Daniel Aidamenbor, in a statement released on Monday, June 29, 2026.
Arrest Following Community Complaint
The suspect, a resident of No. 32, Moferere Street, Iju, Akure North, was apprehended after a formal complaint was lodged on June 24, 2026, by the Youth Leader of Iju Community. The complaint detailed the activities of suspected vandals targeting an MRM telecommunications mast station in the area. According to the command, intelligence operatives, in collaboration with community members, placed the facility under covert surveillance.
This operation led to the arrest of the suspect on Thursday, June 25, 2026, while his accomplices managed to escape. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect and his accomplices unlawfully breached the fenced compound housing the telecommunications mast with the intention of dismantling and stealing valuable components.
Forensic Evidence and Confession
A forensic assessment of the facility showed that the mast had been systematically loosened around its foundation bolts, and several critical components had already been disassembled by the vandals. During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to the offence and admitted to having visited the facility on several previous occasions to carry out similar acts of vandalism while evading arrest.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect had reportedly been banished from the community in May 2026 following his alleged involvement in the robbery of a residential building located opposite the telecommunications mast. When confronted with substantial intelligence and physical evidence obtained during the investigation, the suspect made a written confessional statement admitting to both the current offence and other previous criminal activities.
Commandant's Appeal for Community Cooperation
Commandant Oluyemi Ibiloye commended members of the Iju Community for their cooperation and urged communities across Ondo State to continue partnering with security agencies in protecting critical national assets and infrastructure. He warned that organised criminal syndicates are actively involved in the systematic vandalisation of public infrastructure across the state and assured residents that the command remains committed to identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all those involved.
The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
