The Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended three suspects in connection with the theft and vandalization of electricity transformers in the state. The suspects were paraded by NSCDC State Commandant Esther Akinlade in Lokoja, who provided details of the incidents, which took place on October 7 and October 20, 2024, in Ankpa and Isanlu, respectively.
According to Commandant Akinlade, one of the suspects, Agbo Christian, 33, from Enugu State, allegedly vandalized armoured cables at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) premises in Ankpa. He was initially able to evade capture, but was later detained by a security guard during a subsequent attempt on October 18. During his arrest, tools including a saw, chisel, and spanner were recovered, which he reportedly admitted were intended for the vandalism.
In a related incident on October 20, NSCDC officers, in collaboration with local residents of Ofin-Isanlu in Yagba East LGA, apprehended two other suspects, James Nifemi and Ibrahim Jafaru, in possession of armoured cable allegedly stolen from a community transformer.
Commandant Akinlade commended the joint effort of security personnel and local residents in aiding the arrests, encouraging ongoing community support in tackling criminal activities in Kogi State.
During the parade, the suspects confessed to the crimes and requested leniency. The NSCDC confirmed that the suspects will be formally charged in court soon.