Niger: NSCDC launches manhunt for three suspects over alleged theft of communication mast

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Niger State Command has denied any involvement in the loss of a telecom mast in the state.

Mr Elijah Etim, the state Commandant, stated that the main suspects have already been identified and are being pursued.

Etim informed reporters on Wednesday in Minna that the investigation had found that a scrap dealer named Bello Mustapha, assisted by two NSCDC personnel, was most likely involved in the crime.

Etim stated that a recent media allegation stating that he conspired with two officials to remove and sell the mast was completely incorrect.

According to him, Mustapha approached two NSCDC members, one assigned to Niger command and the other to Kaduna State command, using falsified documents, for cover to evacuate the mast.

He stated that the mast was in Rafi Local Government Area.

“However, the command was shocked to hear over the media that the tower was confiscated by men of the command and the commandant sold it and that some parts of it are in Lagos. It is not true,” he said.