The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 36 scavengers over alleged possession of illicit drugs and weapons in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The NSCDC Commandant in the FCT, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, disclosed this to journalists on Friday in Abuja.
He said the suspects were caught in various parts of the FCT.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had banned the activities of scavengers in the city.
The minister also suspended for two weeks operations of pan-takers across the city.
Odumosu listed items allegedly recovered from the suspects to include four daggers, three Jack knives, two chisels and, three knives.
Others were narcotic drugs, 10 bottles of codeine syrup, 45 wraps of cannabis sativa, thrash bags, and pieces of iron rods.
“The suspects are currently being investigated and profiled and I will ensure that due diligence is followed in their prosecution,” Odumosu stated.
The corps commandant advised FCT residents to dispose of refuse through the appropriate waste management companies and stop patronising scavengers, popularly called “Baba Nbola” for the sake of safety.
“Chase scavengers away whenever you see them in front of your houses, streets, neighbourhoods, or estates.
“Give us relevant information about any suspicious movements or activities of these criminal scavengers who have been restricted to operate at dump sites only,” he added.