Two Arrested in Grafton Following Solar Equipment Theft
Police have launched an investigation after two suspects were apprehended on Sunday, October 4, 2026, for allegedly stealing a community solar lighting system installed at a local transformer facility.
The solar setup, intended to safeguard and illuminate the critical power infrastructure, was reportedly sold to an individual named Momodu for 150 Leones. However, the suspects claimed they received only 70 Leones of the agreed payment.
Alerted by a tip-off from a community member identified as Father P, local residents organized a group of youths on motorbikes to pursue those responsible.
The pursuit ended in neighboring Hastings, where two suspects were detained. Four other individuals linked to the crime managed to evade capture and remain at large.
The theft has outraged Grafton residents, who are already grappling with chronic power outages, transformer breakdowns, and recurring vandalism targeting copper cables and electrical materials.
Residents have also raised concerns over the alleged theft of copper cables and other electrical materials, which they say further affects the community’s electricity supply.
Authorities confirmed that the stolen solar system has been recovered and is currently held as evidence. While in custody, the suspects claimed to be employees of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA)—an assertion police are actively verifying.
In light of the incident, community leaders are demanding heightened security surrounding vital utility infrastructure and stricter penalties for equipment theft.
Comments