Six individuals have been arrested in Bayelsa State over alleged involvement in the theft and vandalism of solar-powered street lights installed to improve public safety across parts of the state.
The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command, who also recovered stolen solar panels and iron-cutting equipment used in carrying out the criminal activities. Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to identify those who may have been buying or reselling the stolen items.
During a press briefing, the Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, described the vandalism as a serious act of economic sabotage. He noted that the Elebele-AIT Road and other areas of Yenagoa have experienced multiple cases of infrastructure damage in recent months.
“Vandalism is sabotage. Some criminal elements are targeting our solar light infrastructure which has helped sustain nightlife and security. We are monitoring and arresting those involved,” the CP stated.
In response to the rising vandalism, the Bayelsa State Government has supported the police with a long-range surveillance drone capable of day and night operations, designed to reduce crime and monitor public infrastructure in real time.
The police chief emphasized the importance of protecting public installations, stressing that such assets are government investments meant to benefit the people and improve community life.
He also called for a review of existing policies regarding the parading of suspects, noting that while the command does not support dehumanization, it is necessary to present evidence-based arrests to deter others from committing similar crimes.
The arrested individuals are expected to be arraigned in court following the conclusion of the police investigation.
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