Bayelsa Police Nab Three Ministry Staff Over N500 Million Equipment Theft

The Bayelsa State Police Command has announced the arrest of three individuals employed by the State Ministry of Labour, Empowerment and Productivity, following allegations of stealing government property valued at more than N500,000,000. DSP Musa Mohammed, the command's spokesperson, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Friday, July 17, 2026.

The suspects have been identified as Wadi Igiran, 51, a hair dressing instructor from Besine community in Yenagoa LGA; Nikade Sunday, 59, a staff member from Agbere community in Sagbama LGA; and Azabia Yakie, 59, the Head of the Productivity Department, from Okutukutu community in Yenagoa LGA. All three are employees of the ministry and have reportedly confessed to the crime.

According to DSP Mohammed, a range of valuable government assets were stolen, including a 110 KVA Perkins generator, a forklift, various lathe machines, electric filling machines, and other specialized equipment.

“The Bayelsa State Police Command has commenced an investigation into a case of criminal conspiracy and stealing of government owned equipment at Ministry of Labour Empowerment and Productivity in Yenagoa, valued about (N500,000,000.00) following a petition reported to the Commissioner of Police Bayelsa State,” the official statement read.

The petition detailed that on June 22, 2026, at approximately 10:30 hours, an official inspection team, comprising the petitioner, other ministry staff, and the Head of the Human Resources Management department, visited the ministry’s equipment store. This store is situated within the premises of the Ministry of Transport in Yenagoa. Upon opening the facility, it was discovered that a significant amount of government equipment was missing.

In response to the petition, the Commissioner of Police directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to initiate a thorough investigation. This discreet inquiry ultimately led to the apprehension of the three suspects. Authorities have successfully recovered the stolen forklift from a receiver, and it is currently held at the SCID.

The police command stated that once the investigation is concluded, the suspects will be formally charged in court. The command further reiterated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding government property, actively combating economic and property-related crimes, and ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice.