Suspected Cable Vandal Electrocuted in Rivers -

A suspected cable vandal has been electrocuted while allegedly tampering with electricity infrastructure in Rivers State.

The incident, confirmed by the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED), occurred in Oginigba Community, Port Harcourt, during the early hours of Friday, April 24.

According to a statement issued by PHED’s Head of Corporate Communications, Olubukola Ilevbare, the deceased identified simply as Khalifa and believed to be in his late twenties was attempting to remove a component from a high-tension installation when the fatal incident occurred.

The company disclosed that the suspect had reportedly disconnected a pot insulator from a high-tension pole before power supply was suddenly restored, leading to his instant electrocution.

PHED described the incident as a tragic consequence of illegal interference with critical power infrastructure, stressing that such acts not only endanger lives but also disrupt electricity supply to entire communities.

The company further warned that vandalism of electricity facilities remains a serious criminal offence, with penalties that could include up to 21 years imprisonment under existing laws.

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It urged members of the public to protect power installations and report suspicious activities to authorities, emphasizing that safeguarding infrastructure is a collective responsibility.

Meanwhile, PHED also announced an upgrade in electricity supply to Mbodo Aluu Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.

The area has now been migrated from Band D to Band A, a classification expected to guarantee a minimum of 20 hours of electricity daily.

The upgrade, according to the company, involved the installation of new transformers and replacement of key components such as conductors, poles, and insulators.

PHED commended residents of the community for settling outstanding electricity bills, noting that the development reflects its commitment to improved service delivery.

Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in acts of vandalism within the state.