The Rivers State Police Command said it has arrested a suspect who allegedly specializes in vandalizing telecoms installations and equipment.
The suspects was arrested while driving a Toyota Sienna loaded with 2, 000 tons of VDC power system cabinets, belonging to Airtel Telecommunications Company.
A statement issued on Monday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the suspect, identified as Frank Ukpebitere was arrested by officers at Rumuji axis in Emohua Local Government Area on Saturday.
“At approximately 0100 hours, operatives from the Rumuji Division, while conducting a routine stop-and-search operation along the East-West Road, intercepted a black Toyota Sienna with registration number ABIA, APR 455 HW. The vehicle was driven by one Frank Ukpebitere, a male suspect.
“Upon inspection, officers discovered that the vehicle was transporting 2, 000 tons of 48 VDC Power System cabinets, identified as the property of Airtel Telecommunications Company. The suspect failed to provide a satisfactory explanation or documentation for the transportation of these items, which are suspected to have been stolen.
“Both the suspect and the recovered exhibits are now in police custody as investigations continue,” the statement informed
Also, the police spokesperson, said four other suspects were arrested same day by operatives from the Hawk Unit at Kom-Kom in Oyigbo Local Government Area.
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“At about 1430 hours, acting on credible intelligence regarding the activities of criminal elements, operatives from the Hawk Unit conducted a targeted raid at Blessing Street, Kom-Kom in Oyigbo Local Government Area. The operation led to the arrest of four male suspects,” she said.
The names of the suspects were given as Peter Victor (38), from Una Eket, Akwa Ibom State; Joshua Ibe (25), from Amadugba, Orlu Local Government Area, Imo State; Shedrack David (22), from Ikotumoesen, Eseni Udim Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State and Joseph Acholam (23), from Arochukwu Local Government Area, Abia State.
Items recovered from the suspects include, one round of 7.62×51mm live ammunition, and containers with liquid substances suspected to be hard drugs.
The statement said that during interrogation, the suspects admitted to being part of a criminal syndicate responsible for various acts of terror in Oyigbo and its surrounding areas.
“They are currently providing valuable information to aid further investigations, including efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate and recover additional weapons.
“The Rivers State Police Command reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order in the state. Members of the public are encouraged to provide timely information to assist the police in ensuring the safety of all residents,” the police added.
