Vigilantes Nab Suspected Tower Vandal in Edo

The Omelu Community Vigilante has arrested a 34-year-old man allegedly attempting to vandalise a transmission tower along the Benin–Onitsha 330kV transmission line in Edo State.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), which disclosed this in a statement, said the suspect, identified as Humphry Anala, was apprehended during a routine patrol by members of the community vigilante.

According to TCN, Anala, an indigene of Auchi and resident in Benin City, was allegedly caught beneath one of the transmission towers while attempting to loosen its base bracing.

The suspect was immediately handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation. He is currently in the agency’s custody pending the conclusion of investigations and his arraignment.

TCN said preliminary findings indicated that Anala had allegedly been apprehended by members of the same community about two months ago over a similar offence.

He was reportedly released after pleading for leniency and receiving medical treatment, only to be arrested again in connection with the latest alleged attempt.

The power company commended the Omelu Community Vigilante for its vigilance and assistance in protecting critical electricity infrastructure.

TCN reiterated its condemnation of the vandalism and sabotage of power installations, warning that such acts threaten the stability of electricity supply.

It urged host communities and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around transmission towers, substations and other power installations to the nearest security agency or TCN office.