Operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command have arrested six suspects in connection with the theft and vandalism of solar-powered street lights across the state.
The suspects were reportedly caught with stolen solar panels and iron-cutting tools, and are currently assisting the police with investigations aimed at identifying individuals allegedly involved in purchasing the stolen items.
Confirming the arrests, the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, expressed concern over the rising cases of infrastructure vandalism, particularly along the Elebele-AIT road and other isolated parts of the state capital. He described the acts as sabotage against public facilities.
“Vandalism is sabotage. Some criminal elements are targeting solar streetlights that have sustained nightlife in the state,” Idu stated. “Those behind these acts are being monitored and apprehended.”
The Commissioner noted that the Bayelsa State Government has bolstered police operations by providing a high-powered, long-range security drone to enhance surveillance and improve crime-fighting capabilities.
He stressed that public infrastructure is a shared investment and warned against its destruction, adding that the arrested suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
Speaking on the existing ban on parading suspects, Idu called for a review, noting, “We do not support the dehumanisation of suspects. However, those caught with clear evidence should be paraded as a deterrent to others.”
