In a surprising turn of events in Ebonyi State, three security guards—Idika Chukwu, aged 70, Nwachukwu Abel, 47, and Mbam Moses, 58—have been accused of orchestrating a massive theft from the Indomie Noodles warehouse in Uburu, Ohaozara. The guards, entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the warehouse, allegedly broke in and stole goods valued at an astonishing N1.1 billion.

The Alleged Heist

According to the Prosecutor, Eze Chinagorom, the theft took place over an extended period, beginning in August 2023 and continuing until July 2024. The stolen items included a range of goods such as blank covers, pillar lights, bedside lamps, wall bracket stands, and reflectors. These items were crucial to the operation of the warehouse and were valued collectively at N1.1 billion.

The alleged actions of Chukwu, Abel, and Moses shocked the local community, especially given their roles as trusted security personnel. Their betrayal of trust has sparked significant concern about the security of valuable goods in warehouses and other facilities in the region.

Legal Proceedings

The case was brought before the Abakaliki Magistrate Court on Tuesday, where the defendants faced charges of conspiracy, breaking and entering, and theft. These charges are serious, carrying significant penalties under the Criminal Code, Cap 33 Vol 1 Law of Ebonyi State, 2009.

The prosecutor laid out the details of the case, highlighting how the guards, who were supposed to protect the warehouse, instead exploited their positions to carry out the theft over nearly a year. The defense, led by Mr. Intelligent Ekwe, requested that the court grant bail to the accused on lenient terms. Ekwe assured the court that his clients would not flee and would provide reliable sureties.

Bail Conditions and Adjournment

In response to the defense’s plea, Magistrate Mrs. Sandra Ifeanyi-Onyibe granted bail to the three defendants. However, the bail conditions were stringent: each of the accused must pay N2 million and provide two reliable sureties who reside within the court’s jurisdiction. These sureties must also be individuals of reputable standing, ensuring that the defendants remain accountable to the court.

The court has set the next hearing for September 5th, 2024, giving the defense time to prepare their case and ensuring that the accused will remain within the court’s reach. The case will likely attract significant attention as it progresses, given the high value of the stolen goods and the breach of trust involved.

This case has raised alarms about the reliability of security personnel in safeguarding valuable assets. Businesses in the region are likely to reevaluate their security measures in light of this incident. The fact that such a significant theft could occur over such a long period has led to questions about oversight and the effectiveness of existing security protocols.