Residents of Ibadan, Oyo State are voicing their frustration over the increasing wave of vandalism and theft linked to scavengers operating within their communities.

The residents, speaking in separate interviews, described the junk dealers as a growing menace, accusing them of stealing valuable items under the guise of picking up discarded materials. Some Community Development Associations, CDAs, have already banned their activities in certain areas.

In Eleta community, Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, Mr. Wale Adegboyega said scavengers frequently vandalize both private and public properties.

“Their targets include metal signposts, padlocks, and even culverts constructed by landlords. Most of them are young boys who take advantage of empty streets during working hours to loot,” he said.

Residents of Omi-Adio, another affected area, raised concerns about scavengers stealing electricity cables, lintel rods, and other metal objects from uncompleted buildings.

Mrs. Muibat Abegunde warned that some of them act as informants for criminals, scouting houses for future robberies. “We need urgent government intervention,” she said.

Another resident, Mrs. Fatimah Jimoh, recounted cases where scavengers broke into secured houses to steal electrical appliances, aluminium window panels, and other valuables.

“They know when civil servants and traders have left for work. No matter how secure a house is, they find a way in,” she lamented.

READ ALSO: Eno joins police to fight crime and vandalism in Akwa Ibom

Despite the outcry, community leaders are working on solutions rather than outright bans.

Mr. Adeyemi Ojo, Chairman of Kolajo-Orelope Community Development Association, Oluyole LGA, said measures had been put in place to regulate scavengers’ activities.

“Those who wish to operate in our area must be registered with the community security committee and obtain an ID card. We have also introduced reflective jackets for easy identification,” he stated.

The community has also partnered with law enforcement agencies and established a central reporting system to tackle the problem swiftly.

Mr. Samuel Opebiyi, Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Oyo State Command, assured residents of ongoing efforts to combat vandalism.

“Our personnel are intensifying surveillance and monitoring in high-risk areas. We are also working with other security agencies to ensure a stronger response,” he said.

Opebiyi added that regular patrols and community engagement programs were in place to deter scavenger-related crimes and ensure offenders face the full wrath of the law.

With community leaders and security agencies joining forces, residents remain hopeful for a safer environment.

NAN