A major security scare has hit Lagos as vandals allegedly targeted the Third Mainland Bridge, carting away government-installed CCTV camera cables and other critical infrastructure meant to boost safety on the busy highway.
The Lagos State Police Command disclosed the arrest of a 28-year-old man, identified as Chidiebere Ochiri, in connection with the alleged vandalism of facilities on the iconic bridge.
Lagos Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, said the suspect was arrested after allegedly embarking on a months-long operation of stealing valuable materials installed along the bridge and its environs.
According to the police boss, Ochiri confessed during interrogation that he vandalised and removed cables connecting CCTV cameras, as well as iron materials fixed on the bridge.
The suspect allegedly admitted selling stolen copper wires to scavengers and scrap dealers at about N12,000 per kilogramme.
“One quantity of copper wire was recovered as an exhibit,” Tijani said.
The Commissioner added that investigations were still ongoing to track down other members of the alleged vandalism network.
The development has raised fresh concerns over the security of critical infrastructure in Lagos, as authorities battle increasing cases of vandalism targeting public assets.
The Third Mainland Bridge, one of Nigeria’s busiest transport corridors, relies on surveillance systems and safety installations to monitor activities and improve emergency response along the route.
The police assured Lagos residents that security operations would be intensified to prevent further attacks on government infrastructure and ensure those behind the crimes face prosecution.
