The Antigua Public Utilities Authority has warned the people responsible for stealing batteries in the newly installed solar street lights to “cease and desist” the unlawful practice.
Antigua News Room reported on the theft yesterday, with APUA confirming today that a number of batteries from lights in two different locations have been stolen.
The utility company says each battery is valued at US$1,000 with a lifespan of 20 years and a single solar street light requires two units to operate.
“The company has engaged the assistance of the Criminal Investigation Department in looking into this serious the matter.”
It warns that “persons caught in possession of the stolen batteries will be prosecuted.”
APUA is also seeking assistance from the public in identifying the offenders as well as reporting any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
In a statement following Cabinet, Chief of Staff Lionel Hurst said “the Police have been notified, and the thieves will be punished severely when caught.
He called on anyone who is offered rechargeable batteries for sale, to notify the Police.
The solar street lights were a gift from the People’s Republic of China.
