By Forum staff writer
A man identified as Sheku Goba has been apprehended at the Youyi Building in central Freetown after he was allegedly caught stealing office furniture from one of the offices on the eighth floor of the government complex.
The incident reportedly occurred in broad daylight and immediately attracted attention from workers, visitors, and security personnel within the building.
According to eyewitnesses, the suspect was allegedly caught red handed while attempting to move office items believed to have been taken from one of the offices. People within the building quickly raised an alarm, leading to his arrest before he could escape from the premises.
Witnesses claimed that the suspect had allegedly been linked to several missing items reported within the building in recent months. Some workers said there had been growing concerns over repeated theft cases targeting offices and equipment, but no arrest had previously been made.
A staff member who spoke at the scene said many workers had become increasingly worried about the safety of office property due to the recurring incidents.
Security personnel stationed at the building reportedly intervened shortly after the alarm was raised and detained the suspect for questioning. Several bystanders gathered around the area as the situation unfolded, while others expressed anger over the reported thefts.
The incident caused temporary disruption within sections of the building as workers discussed the latest development and called for tighter security measures to protect government property.
Some visitors to the building also voiced concern over the frequency of theft allegations within public offices, saying stronger monitoring systems and stricter access control measures are needed.
Authorities have not yet released an official statement on the matter, but sources said the suspect is expected to be handed over to the police for further investigation.
Meanwhile, the incident has generated widespread discussion among workers at the Youyi Building, with many hoping the arrest will help address the increasing reports of missing office materials and equipment.
Several people at the scene urged management and security authorities to strengthen surveillance within the building to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Youyi Building remains one of the busiest government office complexes in Freetown, hosting several ministries, departments, and agencies that receive large numbers of workers and visitors daily.
Investigations into the alleged theft are expected to continue.
