VIDEO: Lagos Bridge Vandalism: 27 Arrested as Scavengers Strip Pillars of Iron Bars

The Lagos State Government has uncovered a disturbing act of infrastructure vandalism beneath the newly constructed bridge linking FESTAC Town to Alakija, where scavengers allegedly broke into concrete pillars to remove embedded iron rods for sale as scrap metal. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered a manhunt for the perpetrators and directed that people living under bridges across the state be cleared out, while assuring commuters that the bridge’s structural integrity remains intact.

The discovery was made during a special enforcement operation conducted by state government agencies along the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway, in line with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s directive to rid the corridor of infractions, environmental pollution, illegal motor parks, and roadside trading. A viral video seen by multiple news outlets showed extensive damage to the bridge pillars, with concrete broken open and reinforcing steel bars completely stripped away. In the footage, an unidentified witness expressed alarm, stating that scavengers had been targeting all the pillars supporting the bridge and warned of an imminent collapse if the destruction continued. The witness, speaking in the viral video, described the bridge as having been constructed by the Federal Housing Authority about five years ago and questioned how scavengers could be allowed to engage in such destructive activities in Lagos, warning that if the vandalism continued for another two years, the bridge would face a collapse.

This shocking revelation has sent ripples of concern across the state, raising fundamental questions about the safety of public infrastructure and the effectiveness of existing security measures designed to protect critical assets. The incident has also highlighted the growing challenge of urban scavenging and the criminal networks that profit from the sale of stolen structural materials as scrap metal, a trade that has become increasingly lucrative in recent years. The widespread sharing of the viral video on social media platforms has amplified public outrage and placed renewed pressure on authorities to take decisive action against those responsible for this act of economic sabotage.

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Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, condemned the vandalism in strong terms, describing it as “barbaric, criminal and uncivilised” . He emphasised that bridges are critical public infrastructure and their surroundings cannot be allowed to become residential settlements or havens for criminal activities. “The bridges are not residential homes, and no one should be found living there,” Omotoso stated, underscoring the government’s determination to protect these vital assets from further degradation. According to him, the state government had watched the viral video showing the destruction and would ensure that those responsible were brought to justice. “It is clear that those behind this dastardly act are not decent people. They are the sort of persons who should not be in Lagos. The governor has ordered a probe and the arrest of the perpetrators. The full weight of the law will be visited on those who did it,” Omotoso said, sending a clear message that vandalism would not be tolerated under any circumstances. The commissioner disclosed that the government had already carried out clearance operations under bridges in parts of the state and was extending the exercise to other locations. “We have cleared the under bridges in Obalende and Ojora. Lagos-Badagry axis is being cleared of miscreants. We are extending the clean-up to all other bridges in Lagos. It is a security matter,” he said, emphasising that the protection of public infrastructure is a top priority for the current administration.

The Lagos State Government has arrested 27 persons in connection with the vandalism, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation. Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed the arrests in a post on X on Friday following a joint midnight enforcement operation beneath the bridge involving officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force. “Investigations revealed that suspected hoodlums had deliberately vandalised critical structural components of the bridge by removing iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables, and other supporting materials essential to the integrity of the infrastructure,” Wahab stated. He described the act as a criminal one that poses a serious threat to public safety and undermines the government’s investment in critical infrastructure. Wahab confirmed that the suspects “will be prosecuted in accordance with the extant laws of Lagos State” . He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting public infrastructure and its resolve to take decisive action against individuals or groups engaged in acts of vandalism, environmental infractions, and other criminal activities that threaten the safety and wellbeing of residents. The arrests have been widely welcomed by residents and stakeholders who had expressed concern over the growing incidence of infrastructure vandalism across the state, with many calling for the suspects to face the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent to others.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reacting to the incident in a statement posted on X, described the act as a direct assault on the state’s socio-economic assets and warned that his administration would enforce zero tolerance against destruction of public property. “Lagos will not tolerate any act of vandalism because it is barbaric and criminal,” Sanwo-Olu was quoted as saying, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to safeguarding public assets. The governor confirmed that anyone found culpable in the “horrendous, shameful and condemnable incident” will face the law. Reassuring commuters and residents on the safety of the critical transport link, Sanwo-Olu confirmed that technical assessments carried out by state engineers showed no compromise to the core engineering framework. “I have been informed by officials of the Office of Infrastructure who visited the bridge that the structural integrity of the bridge is intact and remedial work will be executed immediately to protect the columns,” the governor said. Stressing the collective responsibility required to safeguard civic infrastructure, the governor called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around public utilities, emphasising that community vigilance is essential in the fight against infrastructure vandalism. He also directed security agencies to intensify patrols around all major bridges and infrastructure projects across the state to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

The latest incident has brought renewed attention to the vulnerability of public infrastructure to vandals and scavengers who target metal components for their scrap value. Beyond the cost of replacing stolen materials and repairing damaged infrastructure, attacks on reinforcing steel embedded in bridge pillars could raise questions about the continued integrity of affected structures and the need for prompt technical assessment. The incident recalls similar cases of vandalism reported on the Third Mainland Bridge, where suspects were arrested in connection with the removal of newly installed infrastructure, including solar-powered reflective road studs and bridge railings. Authorities have since intensified surveillance and patrols around major bridges, with CCTV systems deployed to assist in identifying and tracking offenders. The recurrence of such incidents has prompted calls for stricter penalties and enhanced security measures to deter would-be vandals, with some experts advocating for the deployment of advanced surveillance technology and the creation of specialised units to combat infrastructure crime. The government’s probe is expected to establish the extent of the damage to the bridge in the video, identify those responsible, and determine whether other bridges in the state have suffered similar attacks. This comprehensive investigation aims to provide a full picture of the scale of infrastructure vandalism in Lagos and inform strategies to prevent future occurrences.

Some residents who reacted to the development condemned the alleged vandalism and called for stricter enforcement and appropriate punishment for offenders. A resident identified as @Primax2U suggested that the government should also address some of the socio-economic factors that could encourage people to engage in scavenging and other activities to make a living. “As much as it’s bad destroying government property and risking lives, government needs to also assist in subsidising basic amenities or, better still, create job opportunities that would definitely remove more idle minds to more productive things than destruction to make a living,” the resident said, highlighting the complex socio-economic dynamics that often underpin such criminal activities. Another resident, @tycityevents, expressed concern over the alleged removal of structural materials from beneath the bridge, warning that if urgent action isn’t taken, the bridge could be at serious risk. These voices reflect a broader conversation about the need for a multi-faceted approach to addressing infrastructure vandalism, one that combines enforcement, community engagement, and socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of such destructive behaviour. Other residents called for the government to consider offering amnesty and skills acquisition programmes to scavengers as a way of channelling their energy into productive ventures, while also cracking down on the illegal scrap metal trade that fuels the destruction of public assets.

Omotoso appealed to residents to remain vigilant and regard the protection of public infrastructure as a collective responsibility. He urged Lagosians who notice suspicious activities around bridges and other government infrastructure to immediately alert security agencies, saying vandalism of such facilities endangered not only government property but also the lives of people who use them. This appeal comes as the government intensifies its efforts to protect public assets and ensure the safety of all residents. The commissioner emphasised that community involvement is crucial in identifying and preventing acts of vandalism, and called on all Lagosians to play their part in safeguarding the state’s infrastructure. As the investigation continues and legal proceedings against the 27 suspects get underway, the Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring that those who engage in such destructive acts face the full consequences of their actions. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing rapidly growing cities like Lagos, where the demand for scrap metal and other recyclable materials continues to fuel criminal activities that threaten public safety and undermine development efforts.

VIDEO: Lagos Bridge Vandalism: 27 Arrested as Scavengers Strip Pillars of Iron Bars

ISWAP Overruns Rival JAS Enclave In Borno Following ₦40m Cash Theft

Fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have reportedly overrun a major stronghold belonging to the rival Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) , commonly known as Boko Haram, in Gazwa, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State . The fierce confrontation, which has intensified the long-standing rivalry between the two extremist groups, was reportedly triggered by the alleged theft of approximately ₦40 million from ISWAP logisticians operating along the Gazwa-Kwaltafarji axis . The details of this latest escalation emerged from the debriefing of recently surrendered JAS fighters, who provided intelligence on the intense competition and hostility between the factions . According to these sources, a JAS commander identified as Munzir orchestrated an ambush on ISWAP operatives transporting cash and supplies, and the attack resulted in the death of one ISWAP operative, while the JAS fighters reportedly seized an AK-pattern rifle along with the substantial sum of money, which they successfully escaped with .

The stolen funds were subsequently handed over to a senior JAS commander based in Gazwa, known as Baafu, and sources indicate that Baafu transferred the money to another high-ranking commander, Ali Ngulde, who is believed to be operating from the Mandara Mountains region . From there, the funds were distributed among the JAS commanders and fighters according to the group’s standard revenue-sharing arrangement, and military intelligence reportedly indicated that ISWAP viewed the incident as more than a robbery, considering it a direct challenge to its authority and a threat to its critical logistics network in the region . Approximately ten days after the initial ambush, ISWAP mobilised a significant force from their strongholds in Yuwe, the Sambisa Forest, and Zangeri, and in a coordinated dawn assault, they launched a fierce attack on JAS positions within the Gazwa enclave . The battle raged for several hours, with JAS fighters putting up initial resistance, but the arrival of ISWAP reinforcements from the Sambisa Forest ultimately overwhelmed the defenders, forcing the JAS fighters to abandon one of their key positions in the Bama axis . The successful overrunning of the camp allowed ISWAP to establish temporary control over the Gazwa camp, though intelligence sources note that ISWAP remains cautious and could withdraw if the displaced JAS faction mounts a major retaliatory offensive .

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This latest confrontation is part of a broader series of intense clashes between ISWAP and JAS, as the rival factions compete fiercely for territorial control, valuable resources, and influence across the North-East region . The internal discord appears to be escalating, as evidenced by an earlier attack days prior, where ISWAP fighters reportedly ambushed a JAS faction around Bula Murge in the Gargash area, also in Bama Local Government Area, and that attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of several senior JAS commanders, including Abu Ubaida, Modu Kori, Alhaji Modu, Mure, Zarkawi, Sheriff, and Modu Maye . The clash also led to the destruction of JAS camps at Bula Murge and Nguro Bafuye, forcing surviving fighters to relocate their families towards Bula Daloye . The rivalry between the two factions dates back to 2016, when ISWAP broke away from the Abubakar Shekau-led Boko Haram movement over ideological and leadership disagreements, and since then, both groups have engaged in repeated battles over territorial control, taxation routes, recruitment of fighters, and strategic hideouts across the Lake Chad Basin and the Sambisa Forest . The rivalry intensified in May 2021 when ISWAP launched a major offensive that cornered Shekau, who reportedly died after detonating an explosive device rather than surrendering .

Military sources cited in the reports suggest that this ongoing rivalry could further expose weaknesses within the ranks of both groups, creating potential opportunities for security forces to disrupt their operations . The renewed infighting comes amid sustained military operations and airstrikes against insurgent groups in the North-East, which have reportedly weakened their logistics, operational capabilities and freedom of movement . Security sources said the rivalry presents an opportunity for the military to intensify coordinated land and air operations aimed at preventing either faction from regrouping or consolidating new positions in the Sambisa Forest and Mandara Mountains . Intelligence gathering is reportedly continuing to track the movements of both factions and prevent either group from regrouping or establishing new operational bases . The situation remains dynamic, with both factions seeking to consolidate their positions and recover from their recent losses as security forces continue to monitor developments across the North-East .

ISWAP Overruns Rival JAS Enclave In Borno Following ₦40m Cash Theft

Customs Intercepts 140 Pump-Action Rifles, Cannabis-Infused Products Worth ₦373.8 Million at Tin Can Port

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded another major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling campaign with the interception of a container carrying concealed parts of pump-action rifles and the seizure of illicit cannabis-infused products valued at ₦373.8 million at the Tincan Island Port Command. Two suspects are currently in custody assisting investigators, while the principal importer of the firearms remains at large and is being actively tracked by security agencies. Addressing journalists during a press briefing on Thursday, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described the seizures as a significant victory against transnational criminal networks exploiting Nigeria’s seaports to smuggle prohibited weapons and dangerous narcotics into the country. He warned that the intercepted items pose serious threats to national security and public health, reaffirming the Service’s commitment to preventing Nigeria’s ports from becoming safe havens for illicit trade.

According to Adeniyi, the operation followed intelligence-driven surveillance after Container No. TEMU 184536/9, which arrived aboard MV VELIKA on July 8, 2026, was flagged by the Service’s risk management system for enhanced scrutiny. Acting on credible intelligence, officers of the command placed the container under surveillance and subjected it to a detailed physical examination at the Customs Enforcement Station. A comprehensive physical examination uncovered concealed crates containing knocked-down components preliminarily identified as JoJeff pump-action rifles. As of the time of the briefing, Customs officials had reassembled 140 double-barrel pump-action rifles from the recovered parts, with counting and assembly of remaining components still ongoing. The recovered components are currently undergoing detailed technical examination and inventory to determine their exact quantity and configuration, which will inform the full charges to be filed against the suspects.

Investigations following the interception led to the arrest of a key suspect on July 31, 2026, at the Migfo Bonded Terminal while the individual was allegedly attempting to facilitate the release of the container. Customs disclosed that documentary evidence, financial records, and telecommunications analysis established links between the suspect and the named consignee on the shipping documents. Among the evidence cited was a ₦10,000 payment traced to a company account directly linked to the consignee of the container on the day of the arrest, providing a crucial forensic link between the suspect and the illegal shipment. The Service confirmed that two suspects are currently in custody assisting investigators with their inquiries, while another principal suspect remains at large and is being actively pursued by security agencies across multiple jurisdictions.

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In a separate enforcement operation conducted concurrently, Customs officers intercepted two 40-foot containers loaded with cannabis-infused products cleverly concealed alongside legitimate imports, including two used vehicles, two used pumping generators, rolls of blue polypropylene spunbond fabric, new tubular batteries, and thunder arrester cables. The sophisticated concealment method demonstrated the lengths to which international trafficking syndicates are willing to go to evade detection. The seizures comprised 109 cartons of Delta-8 cannabis-infused pre-roll cookies containing 8,720 pieces (17.44kg) valued at ₦308.7 million, 125 cartons of Delta-8 cannabis-infused gummies comprising 740 packs (515.2kg) valued at ₦40.7 million, and 73 cartons of cannabis-infused cookies containing 442 packs (309.4kg) valued at ₦24.3 million. The total estimated street value of the seized illicit substances stands at ₦373,802,640, representing one of the largest seizures of cannabis-infused products by the Service in recent years.

The Comptroller-General noted that the interceptions highlight the increasing sophistication of international criminal syndicates using legitimate trade channels to traffic prohibited weapons and narcotic substances. He added that the successful operations reaffirm the effectiveness of the Service’s intelligence-driven enforcement strategy, advanced risk profiling mechanisms, and strong collaboration with sister security agencies, particularly the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Adeniyi warned that the cannabis-infused products were attractively packaged with flavours such as citrus, vanilla, pine, and peach pie to resemble ordinary snacks, making them particularly appealing to children, students, and other young people. He cautioned that unsuspecting consumers could unknowingly ingest the products because of their deceptive packaging, highlighting a growing public health crisis that extends beyond traditional drug enforcement concerns.

Receiving the seized items, the Commander of Narcotics at the NDLEA TinCan Strategic Command, Augustine Adewunmi, described cannabis-infused cookies, gummies, and smoothies as an emerging threat to public safety. He warned that the products, imported from the United States, were packaged as vegan snacks to deceive unsuspecting consumers and were designed to appeal to children, students, and club users, significantly increasing the risk of accidental drug consumption among vulnerable populations. He reaffirmed the Service’s determination to identify, apprehend, and prosecute all individuals connected to the criminal networks, declaring that “Nigeria’s ports will never be safe havens for the trafficking of illicit weapons, narcotics, or other prohibited goods.”

The Customs boss commended officers and men of the Tincan Island Port Command and the Customs Enforcement Unit for their vigilance, professionalism, and dedication, while also appreciating the support of partner security and law enforcement agencies, including the NDLEA. He assured Nigerians that the Service remains committed to securing the nation’s borders, facilitating legitimate trade, and preventing the importation of prohibited goods, urging members of the public to continue providing credible intelligence to support the fight against smuggling and organised transnational crime. The Nigeria Customs Service stated that investigations are ongoing and pledged to keep the public informed as prosecutions commence. Adeniyi further disclosed that the Service is working closely with international law enforcement partners to track the financial networks behind the illegal shipments, with a view to dismantling the entire criminal enterprise rather than merely intercepting individual consignments.

Customs Intercepts 140 Pump-Action Rifles, Cannabis-Infused Products Worth ₦373.8 Million at Tin Can Port