The Osun State Police Command has arrested six persons over the alleged vandalism and attempted theft of a high-tension electricity pole in Ikirun.
The suspects were reportedly apprehended around 6 a.m. at Eko-Ende Junction while allegedly cutting the electricity infrastructure with a cutting machine powered by a generating set.
Police spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed the development in a statement issued on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura.
According to the police, operatives attached to the Ikirun Divisional Headquarters acted on credible intelligence and swiftly moved to the scene, where the six suspects were allegedly found carrying out the operation.
The suspects were identified as Onabamiji Emmanuel, 55; Bolaji Odusanya, 51; Alimi Akeem, 36; Balogun Kehinde, 52; Oyewo Hammed, 31; and Oladosu Hammed, 22.
Police said three of the suspects were workers with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), while another was a security personnel attached to the company. The remaining two suspects were identified as welders.
A cutting machine, generating plant and welding machine allegedly used during the operation were recovered.
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The police command expressed concern over recurring cases of vandalism and theft of electricity facilities in Ikirun and neighbouring communities, noting that the activities had contributed to prolonged power outages in the area.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Zungura has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation. The suspects are expected to be charged to court after the investigation is concluded.
Residents were also urged to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in tackling vandalism and other criminal activities across the state.
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