The State Commissioner for Internal Security, Prince Uka Ude, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Abakaliki. He said the convicts specialized in vandalizing public electricity infrastructure and trading in stolen materials recovered from government facilities.
According to him, the breakthrough came on August 30, 2024, when members of the Neighborhood Security Watch, during a routine night patrol, apprehended Mr. Joseph Chigozie and 11 others at the Abakaliki Shopping Mall.
The suspects were caught vandalizing cable wires supplying water and electricity to the shopping mall and its surrounding areas.
Items recovered from the scene included a sumo pumping machine, armored cable wires, solar panels, and high-tension coated cables.
Following their arrest, the Ministry of Internal Security handed the suspects over to the Police for further investigation and prosecution. They were subsequently arraigned before the Ebonyi State High Court, where trial commenced.
Judgment was delivered on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, by Justice Franklin Edem of High Court 4, who convicted and sentenced the defendants to imprisonment.
Prince Ude described the court’s decision as a strong warning to individuals who believe government assets are for sale.
He stressed that electricity is as essential as water to the survival and development of the people, adding that anyone who tampers with public utilities will face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner reiterated his Ministry’s resolve to ensure that Ebonyi State remains crime-free. He attributed the prevailing peace in the state to effective collaboration between his Ministry and other security agencies.
He also lauded Governor Francis Nwifuru for providing the financial and logistical support necessary to strengthen security operations across the state.
Commending the Neighborhood Security Watch, Prince Ude described the operatives as dedicated and selfless, noting that they patrol the streets at night to ensure residents can sleep peacefully.
“When you move around at night, everywhere is calm and peaceful. The only people you will see on the road are these young men of the Neighborhood Watch actively doing their job. They are not seeking praise; they are committed and determined,” he said.
The state government maintained that the convictions mark a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to protect critical infrastructure and safeguard public resources for the benefit of all citizens.
