Operatives of the Surveillance and Intelligence section of Zone 16 of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested 14 suspects who reportedly vandalized the 132V transmission tower line in Bayelsa State, which has left the state in darkness for over two months.
The transmission tower lines supplying electricity to Bayelsa State from Ahoada in Rivers State were on July and equipment was stolen, creating a blackout in the entire state.
Residents and business owners in Bayelsa State are currently experiencing serious difficulties as a result of the actions of the vandals.
The spokesman for Zone 16 of the Nigeria Police Force, SP. Gunn Ewhoborwo Emonena, in a statement on Monday, said the arrest was a sequel to the petition by the state Commissioner for Power, Eng. Kharin Akari Komuko, on behalf of the Bayelsa State Government.
He identified the suspects as Christopher Chimelam Onyeno 22; Chinyereugo Ukommaduakolam, Believe Ajudu, Believe Chimela, Usman Albert Odumanyuyah, Newman Ejimadu,
Pentecost Godwin, Ogbunike Morgan, Julius Okpuhigwe, and Moses Stephen.
Others are Abubakar Umaru, Emmanuel John, Kabiru Usman and Aminu Sanusi.
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The statement read: “They were all involved in the vandalization of 132 KV Transmission Tower Line along the Ahoada-Mbiama axis of the East-West road and ibogaine axis in Rivers State and Bayelsa State respectively.
“The suspects who have been on the wanted list of the zone for the past few months were arrested based on credible intelligence in Rivers State.
“In the course of diligent and painstaking investigation, 35mm Floor Core Armored Cables, 70mm floor core armored Cables, 50mm SLPE Cables, Electrical pot installation, wheel spanners, cutting blades, long botts, eleven KV poles, recline cables, earth cables, bee copper and other items were recovered from the suspects as exhibits.
“While urging residents to take all necessary steps in protecting the properties within our vicinity, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16 headquarters, AIG Paul Alifa Omata reaffirms his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and properties within the Zone.
“The Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetukon PhD, NPM has reasserted his dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. He further urged residents to offer their Maximum cooperation and support in order to have a crime-free society.”
