Osun Police Crack Down on Scrap Dealers, Scavengers Over Rising Theft, Vandalism

By Shola Aderinto, 

The Osun State Police Command has vowed to tackle the rising trend of scavengers' activities in the state, ranging from stealing from households, companies, and government facilities to the sale of stolen goods to scrap dealers.

Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Umar Abba, psc, met with the Scrap Dealers Association, Osun State Branch, on August 20, 2024, to address the pressing issues.

CP Abba frowned at the escalating trend of scavengers' activities, emphasizing that receiving stolen properties is a more severe offense than stealing, as it enables and encourages theft.

He noted that if there are no buyers, there will not be sellers, and urged the association to implement mechanisms to verify the authenticity of goods sold to them.

The Commissioner also highlighted recent cases of scavengers vandalizing power cables in transformers and power lines, which can have severe consequences on the power grid and potentially escalate into a national crisis.

He warned the association that failure to comply with the directive to verify goods and report suspicious individuals would result in constant raids on their shops and scrap yards, holding everyone accountable.

CP Abba emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Police as an effective means of preventing theft, receiving stolen goods, and vandalization of power infrastructure.

The Police Command has assured the public that it will do everything possible to safeguard the state and prevent criminal activities.

The Scrap Dealers Association has been urged to cooperate with the Police and implement the necessary mechanisms to verify goods and report suspicious individuals to ensure a safer and more secure Osun State.