Community Leader Arrested in Abia for Alleged Palm Oil Estate Vandalism

The Zone 9 Police Command in Umuahia, Abia State, has confirmed the arrest of the President General of Okon Aku community, Mr. Mecha Ume, over alleged vandalism of equipment at a palm oil estate belonging to the state government.

The palm oil estate, established in 1961 by Eastern Region Estate Investment (EREI) during the regime of Dr. Michael Okpara as the Premier of the defunct Eastern Region, is located in the Okon Aku community in Ohafia council area.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bruno Iheanetu, two suspects were arrested last Saturday and allegedly implicated the community President General in the matter.

The suspects were initially apprehended by soldiers attached to the 14 Brigade in Ohafia while loading the vandalised equipment into a truck within the estate.

The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Zone 9 Police Command for further investigation.

DSP Iheanetu stated that the investigation is still ongoing.

The arrest of the community leader has sparked concern among residents and stakeholders in the region, as the palm oil estate is a vital source of income and employment for many in the area.

The outcome of the investigation and subsequent actions by the authorities will be closely watched by the community and the state government.