Anambra Police Nab Suspected Vandals, Recover Transformer Parts, High-Tension Cables
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four suspected vandals and recovered vandalised transformer parts and high-tension cables in separate operations in Onitsha and Obosi, as part of its sustained clampdown on sabotage of public utilities.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed the development in a statement on Friday, said operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu acted on credible intelligence to raid a hideout along Atani Road, Onitsha, on August 21, 2025.
During the operation, three suspects — Adamu Ali (25), Usman Sulaiman (22), and Isah Abdullahi (26) — were apprehended. Exhibits recovered included bags of high-tension cable wires, melted cable wires, and transformer components.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects belong to a syndicate specialising in vandalising and selling power installations, with Lagos identified as their major sales outlet,” Ikenga said.
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In a separate incident, security operatives attached to Isiowulu Police Station, while on patrol near Ascension Anglican Church Road in Obosi, intercepted four young men carrying a suspicious black bag. On sighting the team, three fled, while one suspect was apprehended with the bag.
A search revealed assorted cut-to-size armoured cables, iron cutters, glass cutters, hand gloves, a sling, clothing items, a bunch of keys, and a pair of slippers.
Ikenga explained that while being escorted for handover to the police, the suspect attempted to escape by jumping from a storey building. “In the process of re-arresting him, he sustained gunshot injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was confirmed dead. His body has been deposited in the morgue for autopsy,” he added.
All recovered exhibits, including the weapon used by the vigilante group involved in the arrest, are now in police custody. A full-scale investigation has commenced to track down the fleeing accomplices and recover more stolen items.
The Command reiterated its warning to criminals sabotaging government infrastructure. “We will relentlessly fish out those who vandalise public utilities. Ndi Anambra are also urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around power installations to the nearest police station,” Ikenga stressed.
