A crucial meeting was held at the Area Commander’s office in Sagamu between the Sagamu NYCN youth leadership, members of the Scrap Dealers Association of Nigeria (Sagamu Zone), representatives of ‘Bolla’, the DPOs, and the Area Commander.
The Youth President, Comrade Oluwole Aduroja, expressed deep concerns about the rising criminal activities in Sagamu, particularly the alarming reports from the community regarding the actions of ‘Bolla’ (abokis). These individuals have been implicated in breaking into properties, especially in the New Site area, and stealing items such as burglary-proof windows, aluminum, cables, and even solar panels. The situation has escalated to the point where these criminals are dismantling generators and community electricity transformers. Comrade Aduroja emphasized that the community can no longer tolerate these actions.
He also shared his experience of witnessing some ‘Bolla’ members being apprehended by vigilantes for stealing aluminum and burglary materials. The youth leadership has decided to involve the security agencies in Sagamu to take appropriate measures to curb the excesses of these ‘Bolla’ individuals. The youth executive is committed to partnering with all security agencies in Sagamu to prevent these criminal activities from recurring.
Comrade Jolaosho, a member of the NYCN Board of Trustees, acknowledged the Area Commander’s efforts in organizing this meeting. He pointed out that it is evident that some ‘Bolla’ members and a few scrap dealers are involved in criminal activities within the community. He stressed that it is impossible for scrap dealers to not recognize stolen goods before engaging in transactions. The frequent incidents of breaking into properties and stealing valuable items are unacceptable and must be addressed urgently.
The Area Commander, ACP Sheu Alao, emphasized that he will ensure monthly meetings with scrap dealers, ‘Bolla’ representatives, security agencies, and the youth leadership to review the activities of ‘Bolla’ members and address thefts. He urged scrap dealers to exercise caution when dealing with ‘Bolla’ individuals to avoid being implicated in unlawful activities.
Pastor Clement, the Deputy Chairman of the Scrap Dealers Association, supported the youth executive’s concerns and assured that they are working on profiling all ‘Bolla’ members for proper individual identification in Sagamu and Remo at large. The DPO of Igbobi division appreciated the youth executive for bringing this matter to the authorities instead of taking the law into their own hands. He reiterated that security is everyone’s responsibility and assured that he fully supports the youth on this issue. He also advised scrap dealers to consult with him for training on how to identify stolen items before conducting transactions with ‘Bolla’ individuals.
The Area Commander concluded by urging everyone to work together to cleanse the community. He also encouraged the youth to raise awareness within the community so that residents can report any suspicious activities involving scrap dealers.
Signed
Ashaye Adeyinka
PRO NYCN SGM
