By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has secured the conviction and imprisonment of a man, Obika Sopuruchukwu, for vandalism and attempted theft involving critical telecommunications infrastructure in Awka.
Sopuruchukwu was arrested on September 9, 2026, at Emma Nnaemeka Street, Awka, while allegedly attempting, alongside an accomplice, to steal a telecommunications integrated power transformer/generator installed in the area.
According to the NSCDC, the accomplice managed to escape, but its operatives apprehended Sopuruchukwu and subsequently took him to court over the alleged offences.
The Head of Media and Tactical Operations of the Command, SC Okadigbo Edwin, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday on behalf of the State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde.
He said the suspect was arraigned before the Magistrate Court sitting in Awka in Charge No. MAW/276C/2026 on a two-count charge.
The charges bordered on conspiracy to commit a felony, specifically stealing, under Section 495(a) of the Criminal Code, and vandalism of critical national assets through the loosening of bolts and cutting of cables, contrary to Section 353(2) of the Criminal Code.
Sopuruchukwu reportedly pleaded guilty to both counts when they were read to him in court; and the court subsequently found him guilty and sentenced him to one month imprisonment on each count in a judgment delivered on September 11.
The sentences are to run consecutively, with the convict to serve the term at the Correctional Centre, Amawbia.
Reacting to the development, the State Commandant, Cmdt. Maku, commended the NSCDC prosecution team led by SC Ifeanyi Nwokike, as well as other operatives involved in the arrest and prosecution of the suspect.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure across Anambra State, warning that the Corps would continue to pursue individuals involved in the vandalism or sabotage of public utilities.
Maku also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities around government and private installations to the nearest NSCDC formation.
