The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has revealed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the vandalism of Towers T15, T16, and T17 along the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV Single Circuit Transmission Line.
The General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah in a statement issued Monday said the arrests were made on May 9, 2026.
She noted that the suspects, identified as Obinna Nweke and Monday Ezike, are both indigenes of the Ezza Umuhuali Community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Mbah added that they were apprehended by local youths and members of a vigilante group acting on a tip-off.
She said: “Preliminary investigations at the scene established that structural tower members were systematically removed from the affected towers and sold to illicit scrap metal dealers.
“Further investigations revealed that the criminal activity had been ongoing from January 2026.
“We strongly condemn this act of economic sabotage, which can undermine the stability of electricity supply to Ebonyi State and surrounding communities, and commend the vigilance and swift action of the Ezza Umuhuali youths as well as the vigilante group in bringing these suspects to justice.”
The company urged communities across the country to remain alert and promptly report suspicious activity around high-voltage transmission installations to the nearest security operatives or TCN office.