Three Bayelsa workers arrested for stealing N500 million in government equipment

Authorities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, have apprehended three employees of the state Ministry of Labour, Empowerment and Productivity in connection with the alleged theft of government equipment worth approximately 500 million naira (about $330,000 USD).

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On June 22, 2026, at about 10:30 a.m., the petitioner led a team comprising staff of the ministry and the Head of the Department of Human Resources Management on an official inspection of the ministry’s equipment store located within the premises of the Ministry of Transport, Yenagoa. Upon opening the store, it was discovered that several valuable government assets, including a 110 KVA Perkins generator, a forklift, lathe machines, electric filling machines and other equipment, were missing.

The suspects are accused of conspiring to pilfer various state-owned assets from the ministry's store. These included a 110 KVA Perkins generator, a forklift, lathe machines, and electric filling machines, among other items. The discovery was made during an official inspection of the equipment store on June 22, 2026, following a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police.

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Upon receipt of the petition, the Commissioner of Police directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to commence a discreet investigation that led to the arrest of three suspects.

DSP Musa Mohammed, the command's spokesperson, confirmed the arrests, stating that a discreet investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department led to the apprehension of the three individuals. The suspects, identified as Wadi Igiran (51), Nikade Sunday (59), and Azabia Yakie (59), all staff members of the ministry, have reportedly confessed to the crime.

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All the suspects, who are staff of the ministry, have confessed to the crime. The forklift has been recovered from the receiver and is in the custody of the State Criminal Investigation Department. Upon conclusion of the investigation, the suspects will be charged to court.

The police have successfully recovered the stolen forklift, which is currently in the custody of the State Criminal Investigation Department. The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public assets and prosecuting all individuals involved in criminal activities. The suspects are expected to face charges in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

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The command reiterates its commitment to protecting government property, combating economic and property-related crimes, and ensuring that all those involved in criminal activities are brought to justice.