Metal Scavengers: Residents Seek Ban, Amidst Rising Vandalism, Crime in Benin City
Eben Enasco Reporting
Residents of Benin City and surrounding areas have expressed growing concerns over the activities of metal scavengers, known locally as “Iron Condemn,” citing increased vandalism and crime rates in their operations.
Key concerns raised by some citizens during a call-in program aired on a sister radio in Benin City, on Sunday, were theft of manhole covers, vandalization of electricity installations, damage to personal properties, unrestricted access to residential areas for criminally-
minded individuals.
In cracking the negative tides in the state, the Residents are urging Governor Monday Okpebholo to take necessary actions by emulating Delta State’s ban on scrap metal scavenging, prohibiting “Iron Condemn” activities across the Benin metropolis, to prevent breakdown of law and order.
Recall that Delta State government placed a ban on Okada and “Iron Condemn” scavenging in Asaba in May 2024 due to Crimes committed via commercial motorcycles, and vandalism of public facilities.
The urgent plea by residents’ to
“Governor Okpebholo, is to protect the communities who are now expressing dissatisfaction with the strangers invading their various apartments sourcing condemned iron materials .