Greater Accra Regional Minister Madam Linda Ocloo has revealed that a surge in theft is severely undermining the region’s street lighting initiative.
The minister noted that criminally minded individuals are stealing cables and, in some instances, the actual street light units across various communities.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, she informed host Kwabena Agyapong that it often takes less than two months for thieves to strip the systems of their cables or components following installation.
She lamented that this persistent vandalism remains the primary obstacle to the project’s success. Consequently, she urged the public to assist authorities in identifying and apprehending those responsible.
Madam Ocloo emphasised that the installation process is a significant financial investment, and those engaged in these thefts must face arrest and prosecution.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, she stated, “The street lighting issue is a very big challenge, but we will get there. One of the major challenges we have observed is that after we had fixed the streetlights, in less than two months, the cables connected to the system had been stolen. When that occurs, we have to replace them. Street lighting is very expensive. Theft has been our challenge.”
In an effort to mitigate these losses, authorities transitioned to solar-powered systems. However, the thefts have persisted; the minister cited a recent case where four solar lights were stolen shortly after being mounted.
“I am therefore appealing to the Ghanaian public to support us in arresting those behind the theft. Street lighting is crucial. It will prevent accidents and crime, and so if we have people stealing these lights, we have to help our authorities in arresting those behind it and deal with them. If the communities help us, this street lighting initiative will succeed.”
Madam Ocloo further noted that even advanced measures have been targeted. Despite efforts to install street lights integrated with camera systems, thieves managed to steal two of these high-tech units.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana