Dismantling the Telecom Vandalism Syndicate

The Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, has successfully dismantled a syndicate allegedly involved in the vandalism and theft of telecommunications infrastructure valued at approximately N150 million. The operation led to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of 52 solar batteries alongside other critical technical equipment.

Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Simeon U. Akpanudom disclosed these achievements during a press briefing detailing the command's activities between June 25 and September 18, 2026. The investigation followed a petition by PLUTOLORD SOLICITORS on behalf of ATC Telecommunications Nationwide regarding armed attacks on facilities across the South-East and Lagos State.

Prompt, discreet, knowledge-based and intelligence-led investigation culminated in the arrest of the following male suspects in a shop at No. 12 Pastor Alabi Close, Kosofe Area, Lagos.

— Simeon U Akpanudom, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, Lagos

High-Value Burglaries and Financial Misinformation

In a separate operation, the FCID arrested four suspects connected to a N20 million burglary at a shop in Ojota, Lagos. The suspects allegedly breached the premises in May 2026, carting away a vault containing 90 mobile phones, 42 smartwatches, and various accessories. Detectives recovered several stolen items and noted that the suspects admitted to selling the bulk of the loot to a transborder receiver.

The department also addressed digital crimes by arraigning two women, Idorenyin Umoh and Fineness Monday Esu, for allegedly spreading a false social media notice claiming Access Bank Plc would shut down operations in September 2026. The investigation revealed the misinformation originated in a WhatsApp group before being amplified on Facebook to over 12,000 followers.

The suspects have been arraigned on relevant charges at the Federal High Court, Lagos.

— Simeon U Akpanudom, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, Lagos

Operational Statistics and Human Rights

Between June and September 2026, the FCID Annex processed a significant volume of cases, receiving 1,816 letters of complaint. AIG Akpanudom confirmed that 1,803 of these were referred for active investigation, with 24 cases already concluded and processed in court. Additionally, INTERPOL units within the department successfully rescued 36 victims of human trafficking during the period under review.

To strengthen the department's internal capacity, the command has prioritized personnel training and infrastructure upgrades. Seventeen officers underwent specialised training on human rights and ethical conduct. Completed facility projects include solar power installations in the charge room and the renovation of holding cells to meet modern standards of detainee welfare.

Stakeholder Collaboration and Public Safety

The FCID leadership has intensified its engagement with key stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach to security in Lagos. Recent consultations included meetings with the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and diplomatic representatives from the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China.

AIG Akpanudom concluded the briefing by reassuring the public of the department's commitment to diligent prosecution and professional conduct. He urged citizens to continue supporting the police with actionable intelligence to ensure the continued safety of critical infrastructure and private property.

The Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, wishes to reassure members of the public that all suspects found culpable at the conclusion of investigations will be prosecuted diligently in courts of competent jurisdiction in accordance with extant laws.

— Simeon U Akpanudom, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, Lagos