Three Bayelsa civil servants arrested for allegedly stealing N500m equipment

Bayelsa state police have apprehended three civil servants suspected of orchestrating the theft of government equipment valued at approximately N500 million. The suspects allegedly conspired to remove a range of valuable assets from the Ministry of Labour, Empowerment and Productivity.

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On June 22, at about 10:30 a.m., the petitioner led a team comprising ministry staff and the Head of Human Resources Management on an inspection.

Among the missing items discovered during an inspection were a 110 KVA Perkins generator, a forklift, lathe machines, and electric filling machines. The investigation was initiated after a petition was filed with the commissioner of police, prompting a discreet inquiry by the State Criminal Investigation Department.

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Upon opening the store, it was discovered that several valuable government assets, including a 110 KVA Perkins generator, forklift and lathe machines, were missing.

The arrested individuals, identified as Wadi Igiran, Nikade Sunday, and Azabia Yakie, all ministry staff, have reportedly confessed to the crime. The forklift has been recovered from a receiver who is also in police custody. Authorities stated that the suspects will face charges in court once the investigation concludes, reaffirming the command's commitment to safeguarding public assets and combating economic crimes.

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The forklift had been recovered from the receiver, who is also in the custody of the SCID.