By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – Operatives of the Bayelsa State Vigilante Service on Monday apprehended a suspected phone thief identified simply as Francis at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa during Governor Douye Diri’s defection ceremony to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to reports, the suspect, who claimed to have come from neighbouring Rivers State, confessed that he took advantage of the massive crowd gathered for the high-profile political event to carry out his illicit activities. Upon his arrest, he was found in possession of 17 mobile phones, ₦91,000 in cash, and several ATM cards believed to belong to his victims.
The Vigilante Service said the suspect admitted he was not acting alone. His alleged accomplice reportedly managed to escape with additional stolen items before security operatives could close in.
Chairman of the Bayelsa State Vigilante Service, Hon. Doubiye Alagba, who led the operation, confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspect had been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.
Alagba commended his team for their swift action and warned criminal elements to steer clear of Bayelsa State.
> “We will not allow Bayelsa to become a safe haven for criminals. Our men are always on the ground, especially during public events, to protect lives and property,” he said.
The defection ceremony, which drew large crowds of supporters and political figures, continued peacefully after the suspect’s arrest.
