Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have arrested a suspected vandal in Kwall, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, following an alleged attempt to steal critical infrastructure from an educational institution.

The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Nimnan Binfa, was intercepted by personnel of Sector 3 of the operation within the premises of the College of Accountancy, Kwall. Security sources said the troops were on routine surveillance when they noticed suspicious activity around installations believed to house electrical and communication components.

According to military officials familiar with the incident, Binfa was allegedly attempting to remove copper wires when he was confronted by the patrol team. Copper components, widely used in power and communication systems, have become a frequent target for vandals and criminal syndicates, often resulting in service disruptions and costly repairs for public institutions.

Troops at the scene reportedly moved swiftly to secure the area and prevent any damage to the college’s facilities. A chain saw was recovered from the suspect, which security personnel believe may have been intended for cutting through protective casings or structural fittings to access the cables.

Preliminary findings suggest the suspect may not have been acting alone, and investigators are working to determine whether the incident is linked to a wider network involved in the theft and resale of metal components. Security agencies in Plateau State have in recent months intensified patrols around schools, government buildings and utility installations in response to recurring cases of vandalism.

Military authorities say Binfa is currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation. The suspect is expected to be handed over to relevant law enforcement agencies for prosecution once initial military investigations are concluded.

Community leaders in Kwall have welcomed the arrest, describing it as a necessary step toward safeguarding public infrastructure and deterring similar crimes. They have also called for closer collaboration between residents, security agencies and school authorities to report suspicious movements around critical facilities.

Operation Enduring Peace, a security initiative operating across parts of Plateau State, continues to conduct patrols and surveillance aimed at curbing criminal activities, including vandalism, theft and attacks on public assets. Officials say such arrests underscore the importance of sustained security presence in vulnerable communities and around key institutions.