In a bid to tackle the escalating cases of vandalism in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), security agencies have commenced the profiling of operators in ‘pantaker’ markets, popularly known as scrap metal markets. Naija247news gathered that the initiative aims to identify and monitor individuals involved in the illegal trade of vandalized public infrastructure, including railway tracks, streetlights, and telecommunication equipment.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the exercise is being spearheaded by a joint task force comprising the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The task force has begun visiting major pantaker markets in the FCT, including the bustling Dei-Dei and Karu markets, to register operators and scrutinize their activities. Naija247news understands that the move follows a surge in the destruction of critical public assets, which has cost the government billions of naira in repairs and replacements.
Naija247news reports that the profiling exercise involves collecting detailed information about scrap metal dealers, including their names, addresses, and sources of materials. Security agencies are also mandating operators to provide valid identification and proof of legitimate business operations. According to Naija247news, those found without proper documentation or linked to vandalism will face immediate arrest and prosecution.
The initiative has received mixed reactions from market operators. While some have welcomed the move as a necessary step to sanitize the industry, others fear it could lead to harassment and loss of livelihood. Naija247news gathered that many dealers rely on the scrap metal trade as their primary source of income, and the new measures could disrupt their businesses.
However, security officials have defended the exercise, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding public infrastructure. “Vandalism is a crime that affects everyone,” said a senior NSCDC officer who spoke to Naija247news on condition of anonymity. “By profiling these operators, we can identify the bad eggs and ensure that only legitimate businesses operate in these markets.”
Naija247news understands that the task force is also collaborating with market unions to educate operators about the legal implications of trading in vandalized materials. According to Naija247news, the unions have pledged to support the initiative, urging their members to comply with the new regulations.
The profiling exercise comes amid growing concerns about the impact of vandalism on Nigeria’s infrastructure. Naija247news reports that the government has repeatedly called for stricter measures to address the issue, which has hindered development and posed security risks.
As the exercise progresses, stakeholders are hopeful that it will curb the activities of vandals and restore sanity to the scrap metal trade. For now, the message is clear: the era of unchecked vandalism in the FCT is over, and those involved will face the full wrath of the law.
