Five individuals have been arrested in Gbarnga, Bong County, after allegedly stealing 17 chickens from a local poultry farm in what police said is a significant breakthrough in the fight against crimes targeting agricultural businesses.
The Commander of Police Depot One in Gbarnga, Morhafee Jabateh, confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects are accused of stealing the chickens from the Gbokuinema Rich Farm poultry project before transporting them to Gbarnga with the intention of selling them.
According to him, police swiftly launched an investigation after receiving information about the alleged theft.
Their operation led to the arrest of the five suspects, bringing an end to what investigators believe was an attempt to profit from the stolen poultry.
He described the incident as a serious offense against a business that contributes to food production and local economic growth.
Commander Jabateh stressed that the Liberia National Police remains committed to protecting farmers and business owners from criminal activities and warned that anyone caught engaging in theft will face the full weight of the law.
The police commander disclosed that the investigation has been concluded and the suspects are expected to be forwarded to court tomorrow, where they will face prosecution for their alleged involvement in the theft.
The case has attracted public attention in Gbarnga, with many residents expressing concern over crimes targeting farms and agricultural enterprises.
Poultry farmers said repeated thefts not only cause financial losses but also discourage investment in the sector, which plays an important role in strengthening food security and creating jobs.
Police are encouraging community members to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, emphasizing that public cooperation is essential to preventing crime and ensuring offenders are brought to justice.
As the suspects prepare to appear before the court, the case is expected to test the justice system’s response to crimes affecting local farmers and reinforce law enforcement’s determination to crack down on theft across Bong County.
