The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command says it has arrested 14 suspected vandals and illegal miners during a special security operation carried out across Abuja during the Salah celebrations.

According to the command, the arrests were made by its Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Tactical Squad during patrol and surveillance operations aimed at protecting government facilities and public infrastructure.

The operation comes amid growing concerns over vandalism of public assets and illegal mining activities, both of which authorities say pose economic and security risks to residents and government institutions.

Suspects Arrested for Alleged Vandalism

The NSCDC said two suspects — Samson Anyide, 30, from Osogbo Local Government Area, and Suleiman Ibrahim, 27, from Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State — were arrested along the Utako-Jabi Road while allegedly vandalising crash barriers.

Officials said crash barrier poles were recovered from the suspects.

Another suspect, Abubakar Isija, 22, from Katsina State, was arrested in Abuja’s Zone 3 area while allegedly digging up underground armoured cables. Security operatives reportedly recovered a digger and a saw from him.

A fourth suspect, Shaibu Yusuf, 22, from Funtua in Katsina State, was also arrested at GSM Village in Zone 1 for allegedly excavating armoured cables.

The NSCDC said the four suspects have been transferred to its intelligence and investigation unit for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Nine Others Arrested Over Illegal Mining Activities

The command also announced the arrest of 10 other suspects in connection with alleged illegal mining activities around Gwagwalada Area Council.

Those arrested include women, men and minors from communities within and outside the FCT.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific charges that may be filed against the suspects, but investigations are ongoing.

Why It Matters

Vandalism of public infrastructure remains a major challenge across Nigeria, often leading to disruptions in transportation, telecommunications, electricity supply and public services.

Security experts have repeatedly warned that the destruction of critical infrastructure increases government spending on repairs while exposing communities to additional security vulnerabilities.

Illegal mining has also emerged as a growing concern in several parts of the country, with authorities linking unregulated mining activities to environmental degradation, loss of government revenue and insecurity.

NSCDC Vows Tougher Action

Speaking after the arrests, FCT Commandant, , said the suspects allegedly attempted to take advantage of the Salah festivities to commit crimes.

“Since these criminals have sworn not to desist from crime, we too are ready to go all out for them. They thought they could use the Salah festivity period to vandalize critical assets of our nation but one thing they forgot was the fact that NSCDC has no holiday; my men patrol the city and its environs 24/7 and the results are inspiring.”

The commandant said the agency remains committed to protecting government assets and residents of the FCT.

“We are not resting on our oars, we are determined as ever to protect the assets of government under our purview and we are not reneging on our promise to protect both lives and property of the FCT residents and above all government essential assets and infrastructure provided for the generality of Nigerians.”

He also warned individuals involved in criminal activities to abandon such acts or face arrest.

“Security is the responsibility of everyone of us, leaving it in the hands of security agencies alone is not helping at all. All hands must be on deck to end these wanton acts.”

Public Urged to Remain Vigilant

The NSCDC urged residents to stay alert and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

The command also advised commuters to avoid boarding unregistered vehicles and exercise caution while travelling, warning that such measures could help reduce exposure to kidnapping and “one chance” robbery incidents.

Expert Perspective

Security analysts say sustained patrols and intelligence-led operations are critical in protecting critical national infrastructure, particularly in rapidly expanding urban centres such as Abuja.

Experts also note that collaboration between residents and security agencies remains one of the most effective ways to detect and prevent criminal activity before significant damage occurs.

What Happens Next?

The NSCDC says investigations are continuing and that suspects found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Authorities are also expected to intensify surveillance and patrol operations across the FCT as part of broader efforts to curb vandalism, illegal mining and related crimes.

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a man accused of creating and circulating a false video alleging widespread kidnapping and banditry along the Owode-Idiroko corridor, as authorities intensify efforts to combat misinformation capable of triggering public panic.

Police said the suspect, identified as Johnson Elleh, was arrested after investigations revealed that a viral video he featured in falsely portrayed security threats in the area.

According to the police, extensive verification found no evidence of kidnapping or banditry incidents along the Owode-Idiroko axis or surrounding communities as claimed in the footage.

The development comes amid growing concerns about the impact of fake security alerts on public confidence, community relations, and emergency response efforts across Nigeria.

Police Say Video Was Designed to Create Panic

In a statement issued by ASP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, authorities said the video was deliberately misleading.

“The video was false, misleading, and deliberately designed to create fear, panic, and anxiety among members of the public,” the statement said.

Police investigators reportedly traced the suspect through the footage and subsequently arrested him.

According to preliminary findings, the suspect allegedly admitted creating and circulating the content to attract online attention and increase engagement on social media platforms.

The command said his actions had the potential to disrupt public order and undermine confidence in the state’s security system.

“Investigation is ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation,” the statement added.

Another False Alarm in Ifo

In a separate incident, the Ogun State Police Command also dismissed reports claiming that a bus carrying suspected criminals had been sighted along the Ibogun Road area in Ifo.

Police said surveillance and anti-robbery teams responded immediately after receiving intelligence on June 3, 2026.

Officers discovered that the vehicle had been intercepted by local youths who suspected its occupants of criminal activity.

However, investigations revealed that the bus was transporting 21 labourers employed by a construction company working on the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Ifo-Ibogun Road.

Police verified the workers’ identities and confirmed their involvement in the federal road project.

“The report linking them to criminal activities was found to be false and unfounded,” the command said.

Authorities subsequently escorted the workers safely to their construction site and urged residents to avoid sharing unverified information.

Why Misinformation Matters

Security experts have repeatedly warned that false reports of criminal activity can have serious consequences, including unnecessary panic, vigilantism, disruption of economic activities, and diversion of security resources from genuine emergencies.

In recent years, social media platforms have accelerated the spread of unverified information, making it increasingly difficult for authorities to respond swiftly to emerging rumours.

The Ogun State Police Command said individuals who create, publish, or circulate false security-related information risk prosecution under applicable laws.

“The Command will continue to identify, arrest, investigate, and prosecute all persons found culpable, irrespective of status or motive,” the statement said.

Public Reassurance

Police reassured residents that Ogun State remains safe and secure and urged members of the public to rely on verified information from official channels.

Authorities also encouraged residents to continue their normal activities without fear while remaining vigilant and reporting credible security concerns through official emergency channels.

What Happens Next?

The police say investigations into the false video are continuing and that the suspect will be formally charged upon completion of the process.

Authorities are also expected to intensify public awareness campaigns against fake news and misinformation, particularly on security-related issues.

The Ondo State Government has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that a kidnapping occurred at a school in Akure, the state capital.

Officials described the reports as false and urged residents, particularly parents and guardians, not to spread unverified information capable of causing panic.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, said authorities had found no evidence of any kidnapping incident in primary, secondary or tertiary institutions across Akure.

“The Government categorically states that there is no record, report, or incident of kidnapping in any primary, secondary, or tertiary institution in Akure,” the statement said.

According to the government, schools across the state capital remain open and are conducting academic activities without disruption.

Security Agencies Confirm Normalcy

The government said security agencies, including the Police, Amotekun Corps and the Department of State Services (DSS), had verified school environments across Akure and confirmed that normal activities were ongoing.

Officials also said security measures remained in place in collaboration with school authorities and parents to ensure the safety of pupils, students and staff.

“The Government, in collaboration with school authorities and parents, has maintained strict security protocols across all schools to ensure the safety of pupils and students at all times,” the statement added.

The administration urged residents to report genuine security concerns directly to law enforcement agencies rather than relying on social media claims.

Why It Matters

False security reports have increasingly spread across social media platforms in Nigeria, often triggering anxiety among residents and prompting emergency responses from authorities.

For parents and guardians, reports involving schools can generate immediate concern, making verification from official sources critical before information is shared online.

Security analysts have repeatedly warned that misinformation can undermine public confidence and divert security resources from genuine threats.

“All schools in the state capital are safe, open, and conducting academic activities without disruption.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa Hails Court Verdict on Owo Church Attack

Meanwhile, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has welcomed the conviction and death sentence handed down to four individuals found guilty of involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo.

The attack shocked Nigeria and the international community after worshippers were killed and several others injured during a church service.

In a separate statement, the governor described the judgment as a significant victory for justice and the rule of law.

“The court verdict is a victory for justice, the rule of law, and for all victims of the heinous attack that claimed the lives of innocent worshippers and left many others injured,” he said.

A Message Against Terrorism

Governor Aiyedatiwa praised investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary for their roles in securing the convictions.

He said the outcome demonstrated that acts of terrorism and violence would not go unpunished.

“This judgment sends a clear message that those who take innocent lives will face the full weight of the law, no matter how long it takes,” the governor stated.

He also commended residents of Owo and members of the Catholic community for their resilience in the aftermath of the attack.

Seeking Closure for Victims’ Families

While acknowledging that no court ruling could reverse the loss suffered by victims’ families, the governor said the judgment could provide a measure of closure.

“While nothing can bring back the lives lost, this judgment provides a measure of closure and hope that justice is possible,” he said.

The governor pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve the protection of public spaces across the state.

What Happens Next?

Security experts say the case highlights the importance of sustained intelligence operations and effective prosecution in tackling terrorism-related crimes.

The Ondo State Government says it will continue investing in security infrastructure and partnerships with federal security agencies to prevent future attacks.

For many residents, the verdict marks another chapter in the state’s efforts to seek justice for victims while strengthening public confidence in the legal system.