By Funmi Falae
Residents of Temidire Community in Ado Ekiti have expressed growing concern over the activities of metal scrap pickers who move around the area collecting condemned iron and other metal waste.
While scrap picking is widely regarded as a legitimate means of livelihood for those involved, many residents allege that some individuals use the opportunity to engage in criminal activities, including burglary and theft.
According to the community members, the scrap pickers often gain access to residential areas under the guise of searching for discarded materials. However, there are increasing reports that some of them scout buildings and later return to burgle homes, carting away valuables and metal fixtures.
Speaking on behalf of the Landlords’ Association of Temidire Community, Elder Esan Afolabi said the situation has become worrisome and requires urgent attention. He noted that while the community does not oppose legitimate scrap collection, there have been repeated cases of missing items suspected to be linked to some of the individuals.
“We are not against anyone trying to earn a living, but the trend we are observing is alarming. Some of these scrap pickers use the opportunity to monitor houses and later break in to steal valuables, including iron materials, cooking pots and other household items,” he said.
Elder Afolabi called on relevant authorities to regulate the activities of scrap collectors by introducing proper identification measures and closer monitoring.
He also urged security agencies to intensify surveillance in the area and work closely with residents to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Efforts to get the reaction of security authorities were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
