By Rita Daniel
Residents of the Ogodio-Axis community in Abraka, Delta State, have raised fresh concerns over increasing cases of theft and property destruction allegedly linked to suspected scrap-iron thieves operating in the area.
The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, May 7, when some youths allegedly entered a private residence within the community with the intention of stealing valuables.
According to residents, the building belongs to Mr. Raphael Uwanoghor, a respected indigene of Urhuvie, Abraka, who is based in the United Kingdom. Suspicion was raised after a neighbour noticed unusual movement inside the mansion despite reports that the house had been securely locked.
The neighbour immediately alerted members of the community, who swiftly mobilized to the scene. One of the suspects was reportedly apprehended and later handed over to officers at the Abraka Police Station for further investigation.
Community members described the incident as disturbing, especially considering the level of security surrounding the residence and the growing pattern of similar incidents within the area.
During interrogation, the arrested suspect allegedly confessed that he did not act alone, claiming that another accomplice was hiding inside the ceiling of the house while waiting for an opportunity to escape with stolen items.
Residents said efforts to capture the second suspect initially proved unsuccessful. It was later discovered that the suspect escaped through the roof after damaging sections of the pop ceiling and expensive roofing sheets in the process, causing significant destruction to the property.
Reacting to the development, indigenes of Urhuvie Abraka called on the Delta State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward tackling criminal activities in the community.
The residents expressed worry that the activities of suspected scrap-iron thieves have continued to result in financial losses and destruction of properties, particularly buildings under construction. They alleged that electrical wires and other valuable materials are often removed from newly built or developing houses.
Some residents also made serious allegations linking certain suspects to criminal activities involving children, urging security agencies to thoroughly investigate such claims and take decisive action to protect lives and property in the area.
The community appealed for urgent intervention to prevent further incidents and restore confidence among residents living in the Ogodio-Axis and surrounding parts of Abraka.
