Amanze Chinonye
The Federal Government’s newly deployed Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system on the Third Mainland Bridge has led to the arrest of three suspected vandals caught in real time while damaging critical road safety infrastructure.
The suspects were apprehended after the surveillance cameras captured them removing and vandalising 156 cat-eye reflective lights installed on the bridge to enhance night-time visibility and reduce accidents. The arrest marks the first major operational success of the CCTV system since it became fully functional.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, who paraded the suspects before journalists in Lagos, said the swift arrest demonstrated the effectiveness of the technology and the government’s renewed commitment to protecting public infrastructure.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to him, the men, who identified themselves as scavengers commonly referred to as “Bola,” were monitored live from the CCTV control centre, enabling immediate response by security agencies.
READ ALSO : FG Inaugurates ₦40 Billion CCTV Centre on Third Mainland Bridge to Boost Security, Traffic Management
Umahi expressed concern over the persistent vandalism of federal road assets, noting that the theft of cat-eye reflectors on the Third Mainland Bridge has been an ongoing challenge that poses serious safety risks to motorists. He warned that acts of vandalism not only endanger lives but also impose heavy financial burdens on the government.
The Minister urged Nigerians to see public infrastructure as collective national property that must be protected, stressing that the Federal Government would no longer tolerate the destruction of assets built with public funds.
Security officials involved in the operation described the CCTV system as “highly effective,” adding that it allows for 24-hour real-time monitoring of strategic locations and rapid deployment of law enforcement personnel when suspicious activity is detected. They advocated the nationwide rollout of similar surveillance systems on major highways, bridges and rail corridors.
The CCTV installation on the Third Mainland Bridge forms part of a broader federal initiative to modernise and secure critical transport infrastructure, improve road safety and deter criminal activities.
Officials said the technology aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s infrastructure protection and renewal agenda.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects will be handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution, while monitoring on the bridge has been intensified to prevent further acts of vandalism.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
