The Niger State Command of the Department of State Service (DSS) has showcased 17 individuals suspected of vandalism for their alleged involvement in the unauthorized removal of government installations in various areas of Minna, the capital of the state.

The personnel of the secret police acted on the directives of the State Government instructing security operatives in the state to apprehend the suspected vandals.

The security agencies dispatched their personnel to the scenes of the incidents, arrested the suspects and recovered large numbers of interlocks stolen on the roadsides across Minna and it’s environs.

Addressing the newsmen during the parade of the suspects at the DSS Headquarters on Monday, January 8, 2024, the Director, Civil Engineering in the Niger State Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development, Engr. Mohammed Kudu Madami disclosed that the arrest followed the directives of the State Government through the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman Gawu.

He stated further that the arrests of the vandals of the interlock tiles laid by the previous administration to beautify the state, should serve as a stern warning to some misguided members of the public that the government will continue to safeguard and protect its infrastructures against the unlawful activities of criminals.

The Deputy Director stated further that the 17 suspected vandals would be subjected to thorough investigation by the State Command of the DSS after which they would be handed over to the relevant authorities for onward prosecution in court.

Madami further disclosed that a total manhunt has been launched by security operatives against some of the fleeing  suspected vandals.

Meanwhile, other items said to have been recovered from the suspects include two big lorries loaded with interlocking tiles, two tipper lorries  with full loaded sharp sand, three pick-up vans, one bus and three tricycles, amongst others.