Two individuals, Mr. Patrick Paul and Habu Ibrahim, have been apprehended for vandalizing the 330KVA Feeder line serving Numan.
The power line had reportedly been out of service for over a month after strong winds damaged several poles and wires supplying electricity from Mayo Belwa, leaving Numan and its environs in prolonged darkness.
Sources say the extended delay in repairs by the power distribution company created a window for criminal activity. The suspects, identified as licensed members of the Licensed Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN), were caught in the act of cutting electrical cables.
During interrogation, the suspects admitted to the crime and blamed “the devil” for influencing their actions.
Authorities have urged utility companies to act swiftly in repairing damaged infrastructure to prevent such incidents. They also called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around power installations to help safeguard critical assets and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.