NSCDC arrests man over alleged cable theft in Jigawa

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Jigawa State Command, has arrested a 35-year-old man, Rayyanu Ibrahim, in connection with the alleged theft and vandalism of armoured cables at the Birnin-Kudu Township Water Station.

The command said the incident was reported at about 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 20, 2026, after unknown persons allegedly vandalised the facility and tampered with its electrical installations.

In a statement issued to newsmen, the command’s spokesman, ASC Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud, said the Divisional Officer, Birnin-Kudu Division, CSC A. S. Adam, immediately mobilised operatives to investigate the incident.

He said the operatives, acting on credible intelligence provided by the Birnin-Kudu Peace and Security Group, arrested Ibrahim at about 11:00 a.m. the same day.

The suspect was arrested with an armoured cable suspected to have been removed from the affected facility. The cable has been recovered as an exhibit.

During preliminary investigation, the suspect reportedly confessed to his involvement in the incident and further disclosed his alleged involvement in other cases of armoured cable theft and vandalism within and outside Birnin-Kudu metropolis.

He reportedly stated that the stolen cables were being sold to scrap dealers.

The command has consequently expanded the investigation with a view to identifying and apprehending other persons who may be connected to the alleged criminal activities, as well as establishing the full extent of the damage and losses incurred.

The Jigawa State Commandant, CC Muhammad Kabiru Ingawa, reiterated the Corps’ determination to safeguard critical national assets and infrastructure, particularly public utilities whose destruction or disruption has a direct impact on the lives and welfare of citizens.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around critical infrastructure and other government facilities to the Corps or other relevant security agencies.

The suspect remains in custody as the investigation continues, while further action will be taken in accordance with extant laws.