Abuja Steel denies manhole theft links as Police investigate; FCT Minister Wike orders immediate replacement of vandalised covers
[dropcap]A[/dropcap]buja Steel Company, located along the Abuja-Kaduna Road, has been implicated as a receiver of stolen sewage manhole covers.
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Law enforcement agencies, including the Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have recovered exhibits and arrested several suspects connected to the theft, purchase, and melting of the stolen infrastructure. Investigations into the company’s role are ongoing.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has responded decisively to the rising cases of manhole vandalism by ordering immediate replacement of the covers. Replacement work began yesterday, reflecting the government’s commitment to restoring critical public infrastructure.
In a statement signed by Chethan Kumar, the spokesperson for Abuja Steel Mills Limited, the organisation denied any involvement in the illegal activities.
The company expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure the apprehension of those responsible for the theft and vandalism.
“Abuja Steel Company operates on a large-scale industrial framework and does not engage in small-scale transactions with individuals or unauthorised agents. Claims or insinuations suggesting our involvement in such activities are false and misleading,” the statement read.
Kumar added confidence in the ongoing investigations to exonerate the company from the allegations.
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Authorities remain resolute in their efforts to dismantle the network facilitating thefts and ensure justice is served.
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