The Government of Anambra State led by Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has outlawed and banned the activities of street corner iron mongers, popularly known as “iron condemn”.
This was contained in a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Paul Nwosu.
According to the statement dated September 13, 2024, Mr. Nwosu lampooned the scavengers.
He said their actions have had a pronounced detrimental impact on the state’s economy and the country as a whole.
These scavengers usually shout ” iron kwandem” to announce their presence in any area.
They have been accused and allegedly found neck deep in some criminal activities including kidnap, robberies and spying for hoodlums and criminals.
They have also been accused of abducting citizens, especially minors and/or outright stealing of properties.
Soludo stops “iron condemn” scavengers
The State Government’s action to ban their operations within the 21 councils reportedly followed the increasing notoriety of their activities.
Their nuisance effect to the citizens, the reports indicated, involved rampant theft and outright vandalization of critical infrastructures involving iron and other metals.
Usually from northern Nigeria extraction, these scavengers are also accused of vandalisation of any form of metal objects from public utilities and private properties without mercy or remorse.
The government also warned all individuals caught engaging in business with these scavengers.
It noted that they will be arrested and prosecuted for receiving stolen property and or indulging in illegal business.
Consequently, the Environment Ministry was mandated to register and certify legitimate scrap iron/metal dealers.
The move, the government said, is to allow them to continue their business without hindrances.
The civil enforcers of state laws/policies, OCHA and SASA brigades have been tasked with enforcing the ban and apprehending any violators for prosecution.
Citizens are urged to report any activities of the “iron condemn” scavengers to the authorities for prompt action.
The move according to residents was seen as a significant step towards maintaining law and order in the state.
It is also meant to protect public and private properties from theft and vandalism.
From Chuks Collins, Awka