Ughelli North Council Chairman bans scrap metal scavenging

The Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Olorogun Barrister Jaro Movudu Egbo Ksc, has ordered the halt of scrap metal scavenging, also known as "Iron condemned," in Ughelli North effective January 1, 2025.

This decision comes after numerous reports of negative activities by the group, including theft of properties like generator sets, roofing materials, and household items.

Chairman Egbo acknowledged that not all members of the group are bad, but the harmful actions outweigh the good, necessitating a stop to their activities. He also advised the group to relocate to the approved Hausa market site at Odedogho expressway, offering a three-month notice and assurance of the Council's support.

Reveals that this ban isn't the first in Delta State. Earlier in May 2024, the state government banned commercial motorcycles and scrap metal scavenging in the capital territory due to rising incidents of vandalism and crime. The government cited concerns over the security challenges posed by these activities, including rape, theft, and vandalism of public facilities.

The scrap metal scavengers have been given a registration process to regularize their activities, but until then, their operations remain banned. The state government aims to enforce these bans to protect lives and property, ensuring residents can live without fear of crime.