Three suspects have been arraigned in Osun State for allegedly stealing and selling 300 insecticide-treated mosquito nets meant for free distribution to residents under a government health programme
The Osun State Police Command on Tuesday said it had arraigned three suspects before a court for allegedly stealing and selling 300 insecticide-treated nets meant to be distributed free of charge to residents.
The suspects were identified as Rabbi Bennett, Opeyemi Ajibola and Aminu Ibrahim in a statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi.
The command’s spokesperson also said the trio had been remanded in a correctional centre after being arraigned.
Giving details of the offences, Ojelabi stated that on 9 June 2026, information was received regarding an incident involving the alleged illegal sale of government-owned mosquito nets meant for public distribution.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that one Rabbi Bennett, a native of Delta State and a staff member of the United States Agency for International Development attached to Ife North Local Government Area, Ipetumodu, reportedly engaged in a dispute with one Opeyemi Ajibola, an Okada rider of Ayetoro Street, Ipetumodu, over proceeds realised from the unlawful sale of mosquito nets,” the statement partly read.
Ojelabi said further investigation established that the suspects, in collaboration with one Aminu Ibrahim, allegedly sold six bundles containing 300 pieces of mosquito nets on 8 June 2026.
The mosquito nets were originally meant to be distributed free of charge to members of the public as directed under the government health intervention programme.
Following the incident, the three suspects were arrested and taken into custody for interrogation. During investigation, they reportedly confessed to their involvement in the alleged offence.
The case has since been charged to court, and all suspects have been remanded at the Correctional Centre pending further judicial proceedings.
This Osun mosquito nets theft has drawn attention to the need for stricter oversight in the distribution of public health commodities to prevent diversion and ensure they reach intended beneficiaries.
The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public resources, promising to ensure that individuals entrusted with public welfare programmes are held accountable under the law.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
