By Augustine Ehikioya
Determined to ensure safety of lives and properties, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, on Thursday 223rd January, 2025 met with scrap dealers across the State to address the rising concerns of vandalism of government and private properties.
The meeting which was held at the State Headquarters, Uyo, aimed to find a lasting solution to curb theft and sale of stolen or vandalized items to scrap dealers.
During his address, CP Azare reiterated the committment of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno in tackling the growing concerns of some criminal elements who hide under the guise of being scrap dealers and scavengers.
The CP stated that some unscrupulous individuals vandalize public infrastructure, such as transformers, Electrical cables and sell them to scrap dealers.
According to a statement by DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), the CP warned that the police would not tolerate such acts and stressed that anyone found engaging in vandalism or the sale of stolen items would be arrested and prosecuted.
He further highlighted the crucial role of scrap dealers in addressing this menace.
He said “Where there is no buyer, there will be no theft.”
He urged the dealers to be vigilant when purchasing items, ensure they obtain proper receipts and report suspicious persons attempting to sell stolen or vandalized properties to the Police nearest to them.
The CP, assured the dealers that the Akwa Ibom State Police Command would intensify efforts to arrest and prosecute those involved in such criminal activities.
He also promised that no police officer would unlawfully arrest or extort money from scrap dealers who conduct their business lawfully and go scout free.
While responding, the Chairman, Scrap Dealers Association, Comrade C. Ejimadu who was represented by the legal adviser, Scrap Dealers Association of Nigeria Akwa Ibom state chapter, Barrister Chidi Anyanwu, commended the Commissioner of Police for the proactive engagement.
He pledged that the association would sensitize its members to desist from buying stolen or vandalized items and work collaboratively with the police to uphold the law.
Similarly, the State Secretary, Elder Eno Erin Johnson, expressed gratitude to the CP and promised to disseminate the meeting’s resolutions to members who were unable to attend.
He assured the police of the association’s commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring its members comply with all regulations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare appreciated the scrap dealers for their cooperation and urged them to prioritize lawful practices in their operations.
He reiterated the Police command’s readiness to support them in ensuring peace and security in the State.