By: Joekai Yango – yangojoekai32@gmail.com
KAKATA, LIBERIA – A resident of the Green Hill Community in Kakata, identified as Bless Habakkuk, has been arrested for allegedly purchasing a truckload of stolen crushed rocks designated for the ongoing street pavement project in the city.
The arrest came days after the Ministry of Public Works’ resident engineer and East International—the contractor overseeing the project—raised concerns about thefts from the construction site.
Crushed Rocks Targeted in Late-Night Thefts
According to authorities, the stolen materials were intended for use along the Via-Mandingo Quarter route, a vital segment of the ongoing road rehabilitation initiative in Kakata.
The incident dates back to Tuesday, May 6, when engineers and contractors reported to the Margibi County administration that unidentified individuals had been removing crushed rocks placed at the site—mostly at night under the cover of darkness. The Ministry warned that these thefts could potentially halt progress on the project.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
In response, Margibi County Superintendent Atty. Victoria Wolorbah Duncan, in coordination with local authorities, launched a community-wide investigation. The effort led to the arrest of Bless Habakkuk by officers of the Liberia National Police. He remains in custody pending further investigation.
Officials Urge Community Cooperation
Superintendent Duncan, alongside members of the Margibi County Legislative Caucus, has called on residents to remain alert and report anyone found in possession of materials designated for public infrastructure projects.
“The success of this road project depends on the cooperation of the community,” Duncan said. “We urge everyone to protect public resources and hold accountable those who sabotage development efforts.”
Project Monitoring Intensified
The Ministry of Public Works and East International have pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely and warned that any further disruption could result in delays to the project’s timeline and impact broader development efforts in Margibi County.
