The Arochukwu Kingdom Neighbourhood Watch (AKNW) has issued a stern warning to illegal scrap metal dealers aka Nde Akpakara, from entering the 19 villages of the kingdom. The restriction took effect from December 2, 2024.

The AKNW took the decision in reaction to the alarming rate of house breaking and vandalism of metal/aluminum fittings, which have been traced to the activities of the itinerant scrap dealers.

It its November 30, 2024 letter marked “Restriction of scrap dealers’ movement in all the 19 villages of Aro Kingdom” addressed to Council of Nde Eze Ogo, the AKNW accused the scrap metal dealers of encouraging the vandalism of fittings in peoples’ houses, carting away valuable items, and selling them.

It further warned that “any scrap metal dealer caught going contrary to this directive will be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution”.

It, however, advised those in the villages, who genuinely desire to sell or dispose of their scrap materials, to do so through their depot recognized by the security agencies in Aro Kingdom.

The AKNW emphasized that the directive emanated from the Eze Aro Palace, warning that it should be strictly complied with.

The letter was jointly signed by the AKNW Coordinator, Mazi (Hon) Jideofor Kanu; Mazi (Hon) Nkem Okoro (Chairman), and Mazi Sonny Iromantu (Secretary).