By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has arrested an 18-year-old boy for alleged stealing of foodstuffs and setting a residential building ablaze.

A statement by the spokesman of the Kwara State Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, said “the incident occurred on Wednesday, at about 12:11 hours, at No 59, Afenifere community, Onireke, Gaa-Akanbi area of Ilorin metropolis,” adding that the Fire Service responded swiftly to the fire outbreak at the residence.

“Upon arriving at the scene, the fire officers found a three-bedroom bungalow engulfed in flames. The gallant officers immediately began extinguishing the fire and managed to bring it under control within 25 minutes.

“Despite their efforts, two rooms were completely ravaged by the inferno, with items such as a mattress, valuable documents, a plasma TV, and clothing completely destroyed.”

The statement added: “Investigations revealed that the fire was an act of arson committed by a gang of thieves who had stolen foodstuffs, groceries, and clothing.

“After being discovered by residents and community members, the gang set the house on fire in a desperate attempt to escape.

“One member of the three-person gang, 18-year-old Olawumi Ayomide, was apprehended by the community. During his capture, Ayomide stabbed a man twice before being handed over to the community chairman, Mr. Azeez Jamiu, who subsequently turned the suspect over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Tanke Division.”

Meanwhile, the Director of the state fire service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, urged the public to remain vigilant and prioritise safety at all times.