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Residents of Brass Kingdom were shocked after two young boys were caught stealing valuable engine parts in what appears to be a planned theft operation in Imbikiri Ama, a community in the area.
According to local sources, the boys reportedly stole engine components, including a crankshaft and piston cup, valued at about ₦300,000. These parts belong to a boat engine used for commercial activities in the community. The stolen items were later sold for only ₦8,500 to iron and scrap buyers believed to be of Hausa origin.
The incident has raised serious concerns among business owners and boat operators who depend heavily on their engines for daily income and transportation.
How the Theft Happened
Information gathered revealed that the boys gained access to the engine and removed key internal parts, making the engine useless for operation. These parts are essential for engine performance, and replacing them is expensive.
After stealing the items, the suspects reportedly took them to iron and scrap dealers, where they were sold cheaply without proper questions being asked about their source. This has once again drawn attention to the role of scrap buyers in encouraging theft by purchasing items without verification.
The theft was discovered when the engine owner attempted to use his machine and noticed that important parts were missing. He immediately alerted community members and local security groups.
One Suspect Arrested by Twon Ibe Security
Following investigations, one of the suspects was tracked down and arrested by Twon Ibe community security operatives. The other suspect is said to be on the run as of this report.
After the arrest, the stolen engine parts were successfully recovered and returned to their rightful owner. This quick response by the community security team prevented further losses and possible resale of the parts.
However, reports from the area say the arrested suspect was seriously flogged before the items were retrieved. While many residents expressed anger over the theft, some have called for better handling of such cases through lawful channels instead of physical punishment.
Business Owners Express Concern
Boat operators and small business owners in Brass Kingdom have voiced fears over the rising cases of engine part theft. Engines are vital tools for fishing, transportation, and other economic activities in riverine communities.
An engine breakdown caused by stolen parts can halt a business completely and lead to financial hardship. Replacing a crankshaft and piston cup can cost hundreds of thousands of naira, an amount many local operators cannot easily afford.
“This is not just theft; it is stealing someone’s livelihood,” a resident said. “If this continues, people will no longer feel safe keeping their engines in the community.”
The Role of Scrap Buyers
Many residents believe that scrap and iron buyers should be properly monitored. These buyers often purchase engine parts and metal items without asking questions about their origin, making it easy for criminals to convert stolen goods into cash.
Community leaders are calling for stricter checks on scrap dealers and better cooperation with security agencies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
They also urge parents and guardians to monitor their children and educate them on the dangers and consequences of stealing.
Community Calls for Stronger Security Measures
Following this incident in Imbikiri Ama, calls have intensified for stronger community security patrols, especially around areas where boats and engines are parked.
Residents are also advised to:
Lock and secure engines properly
Mark engine parts for easy identification
Report suspicious movements early
Avoid buying stolen engine parts
Conclusion
The arrest of one of the boys involved in the engine parts theft in Brass Kingdom serves as a warning to others who may be planning similar crimes. While the stolen crankshaft and piston cup were recovered and returned to the owner, the incident highlights the need for improved security and responsible trading practices among scrap buyers.
As the search for the second suspect continues, community members hope that this case will discourage further theft and help protect the livelihoods of business owners who rely on their engines to survive.
