By: Joekai Yango – yangojoekai32@gmail.com
Kakata, Margibi County — Authorities in Kakata have arrested a local resident, Bless Habakkuk, in connection with the theft and unlawful purchase of crushed rocks designated for the city’s ongoing street pavement project.
The arrest came just days after a public alert was issued by the Ministry of Public Works’ resident engineer and East International, the company contracted to carry out the roadworks.
Habakkuk, who resides in the Green Hill Community, was taken into custody by officers of the Liberia National Police following allegations that he purchased a truckload of stolen construction materials.
The rocks were intended for the Via-Mandingo Quarter route, a key section of the city’s ongoing road rehabilitation initiative.
The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday, May 6, when engineers and contractors informed the Margibi County administration that crushed rocks placed along the project site were being removed under the cover of darkness by unknown individuals.
They warned that such thefts, if left unchecked, could force a suspension of the work.
In swift response, Margibi County Superintendent Atty. Victoria Wolorbah Duncan, in coordination with local authorities, launched a community-wide investigation. This effort led to the apprehension of Bless Habakkuk, who is now under police investigation.
Superintendent Duncan, alongside members of the Margibi County Legislative Caucus, has issued a public appeal urging residents to remain alert and to report anyone found in possession of construction materials meant for the roadworks.
They stressed that community cooperation is essential to ensuring the timely and successful completion of the project.
Both the Ministry of Public Works and East International are closely monitoring the situation and have reiterated that any disruption could significantly delay infrastructure development in the county.
As of press time, Bless Habakkuk remains in custody pending further investigation.
This is a developing story.
