A Magistrate Court has sentenced a 45-year-old man, Ukeme Obonukut, to five years in prison for vandalising solar-powered street lights in Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The damaged solar installations were located along Barracks Road, linking Idung Eka Uyo and Ikot Udo Abia communities within the council area.

The convict, a native of Ikot Udo Abia village, was apprehended in 2025 by vigilant youths who caught him in the act and subsequently handed him over to the police. He was later arraigned before the Magistrate Court on a two-count charge of conspiracy and vandalism under charge number UKM/11c/2025.

Delivering judgment, Chief Magistrate Ifiok Ubom found him guilty as charged and imposed a five-year custodial sentence without the option of a fine.

The magistrate stated that the penalty was intended to serve as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar acts. The court also condemned the activities of individuals who engage in the destruction of public infrastructure and encouraged young people to channel their energy into productive ventures.

Residents of the affected community welcomed the ruling, describing it as a fitting consequence for an act they said undermined development efforts. They expressed hope that the judgment would discourage further vandalism and protect public assets meant to benefit the community.