The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Jigawa State has arrested a former student prefect for allegedly attempting to steal laboratory equipment from a school in Dutse.
The spokesperson for the NSCDC Jigawa State Command, Badruddeen Tijjani, confirmed the arrest in a statement released to journalists in Dutse on Thursday.
The suspect, identified as Aliyu Musa, 22, was apprehended by NSCDC operatives following a report from school authorities about repeated theft of laboratory equipment.
Tijjani said, “The suspect, a former Labour Prefect of the school, was arrested while attempting to cart away five microscopes from the school’s main laboratory.”
He explained that preliminary investigations showed that several laboratory items had earlier gone missing, including 10 conical flasks, 10 microscopes, and other equipment.
“The timely intervention of NSCDC operatives prevented further vandalism and theft of vital educational facilities,” Tijjani said.
The spokesperson stressed that the corps would continue to deploy personnel and strengthen surveillance around schools to curb criminal activities.
According to him, the suspect has been charged with criminal trespass and theft and has already been arraigned before a court for prosecution.
“We will not hesitate to bring perpetrators to justice,” Tijjani stated.
He assured that the command would continue to reinforce security measures aimed at preventing disruptions in the education sector.
He also called on residents to report any suspicious activities around schools to the nearest security agency.
The Jigawa State Command of the NSCDC reiterated that the Safe School initiative is designed to safeguard school environments and protect critical infrastructure.
Tijjani further quoted the Jigawa NSCDC Commandant as warning individuals with criminal intentions to stay away from school facilities across the state.
“The command remains committed to working with school authorities and stakeholders to ensure safe learning environments,” he added.
