A 30-year-old man identified as Kelvin has been apprehended in Okpoma, Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State, for allegedly stealing seven motorcycles within a two-week period.
The suspect was reportedly arrested after a series of motorcycle thefts linked to burial ceremonies in the area, where residents said he took advantage of crowded gatherings to carry out the acts unnoticed.
According to sources, Kelvin allegedly frequented burial events and would discreetly tamper with motorcycle ignitions before riding the bikes away during moments of distraction.
A motorcycle operator, Mr. Odey Hope, told Vanguard that the suspect was suspected of being behind several recent disappearances of motorcycles in the community.
“He usually takes the motorcycles to neighbouring villages and sells them at cheap prices. In the last two weeks, he has confessed to stealing seven motorcycles, though the number missing is actually more,” he said.
Odey described him as a serial motorcycle thief who allegedly operated by moving from one burial venue to another during wake-keep ceremonies.
He also alleged that the suspect was not from the community but from a neighbouring area and appeared familiar with burial schedules, which he used to his advantage.
The source further claimed that Kelvin admitted to selling stolen motorcycles in nearby communities at reduced prices.
In a further twist, it was alleged that the suspect made personal claims linking some of his actions to a domestic dispute within the community, although these claims have not been independently verified.
Following his arrest, Kelvin was handed over to the Divisional Police Station in Okpoma for investigation and possible prosecution.
