Operatives in Cross River State have arrested a 30-year-old man, Kelvin, over the alleged theft of at least seven motorcycles within a two-week span in Okpoma, Yala Local Government Area.
The arrest followed mounting complaints from residents over the sudden disappearance of motorcycles during burial ceremonies, where the suspect was said to have exploited large gatherings to perpetrate the crimes.
Community sources alleged that the suspect targeted wake-keep events, discreetly tampering with motorcycle ignitions before riding them away when attention waned.
A commercial motorcyclist, Odey Hope, said the suspect had long been under suspicion following repeated thefts in the area.
“He often moved the motorcycles to nearby villages where he sold them cheaply.
He has admitted to stealing seven within two weeks, but the actual number missing could be higher,” he said.
Residents described the suspect as a calculated operator who allegedly trailed burial schedules and moved from one venue to another to avoid detection.
Further findings indicated that the suspect was not a native of the community but reportedly came from a neighbouring area, a factor locals believe enabled him to operate without raising early suspicion.
Sources also claimed the suspect confessed to disposing of the stolen motorcycles in surrounding communities at giveaway prices.
He was also said to have made unverified claims linking his actions to a personal dispute, though authorities have yet to confirm this.
Following his arrest, the suspect was handed over to the Divisional Police Station in Okpoma, where he is currently in custody pending investigation and possible prosecution.
The incident has heightened concerns among residents, who are calling for tighter security during social gatherings to curb rising theft in the area.