The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo command, says it has secured the conviction of two persons for vandalising critical national assets in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.

The command also arrested a suspect for the alleged theft of diesel from a telecommunications facility in the state.

Efosa Ogbebor, the command’s public relations officer, disclosed this in Benin on Monday.

Mr Ogbebor said the convictions underscored the command’s intensified crackdown on economic saboteurs and its commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure.

According to him, five suspects were earlier arraigned before a court over the vandalism of critical national assets in Okpella.

“Two of the suspects have been convicted and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment each, while the remaining three are still in custody pending further judicial proceedings.

“These outcomes reflect the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding government infrastructure and protecting national economic interests,” he said.

Mr Ogbebor also disclosed that the command had arrested a young man in connection with the alleged theft of about 60 litres of diesel from an IHS Towers facility in Utesi on the outskirts of Benin City.

He said the arrest followed reports of repeated theft incidents at the facility.

According to him, the suspect was apprehended on Saturday during a joint operation involving the command’s security team and local vigilantes.

He noted that preliminary investigations were underway to verify statements obtained from the suspect and identify any accomplices involved in the crime.

He reiterated the command’s resolve, under the leadership of the state commandant, Akintayo Saidi, to sustain intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements.

“The NSCDC wishes to reiterate that it will not relent in its efforts until all economic saboteurs are identified, apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law through due process,” he said.

He, however, urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to security agencies to strengthen efforts to protect critical national assets across the state.

(NAN)