Six Individuals Detained in Niger State Over Theft and Vandalism of Power Transformer
The Niger State Police Command has successfully apprehended six suspects implicated in the theft, destruction, and illegal handling of a 300 KVA electric transformer. This development was confirmed by the police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, in an official statement released on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
Operation Triggered by Timely Intelligence
According to the statement, the arrests followed actionable intelligence indicating that the suspects intended to sell the stolen transformer in the Maje district. On the night of August 20, 2025, at approximately 9:00 PM, officers at the Maje Division received information that Mustapha Haladu, aged 28, and Abubakar Ibrahim, aged 26, both residents of Kaduna Road, were preparing to dispose of the stolen transformer at an unfinished building along the same road.
Early Morning Interception and Arrests
Acting swiftly, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Maje deployed a patrol team to monitor the area continuously. At around 4:00 AM on August 21, 2025, the team intercepted a yellow truck bearing registration number GWA 850 XD, transporting the transformer. The vehicle was driven by Aliyu Sadi, 32, also from Kaduna Road. Both Mustapha Haladu and Abubakar Ibrahim were found accompanying the truck, escorting the transformer from Akilbu village in Kaduna State.
Suspects Unable to Justify Possession
Upon questioning, the suspects failed to provide any valid documentation or credible explanation for their possession of the transformer. Initial investigations suggest that the group intended to dismantle the transformer and sell its components separately, a tactic commonly used to evade detection and maximize illicit profits.
Additional Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
Further inquiries led to the arrest of three more individuals believed to be involved in the crime: Isya Yusha’u (28), Usama Abdullahi (20), and Usman Suleiman (25), all residents of Kaduna Road. The six suspects are currently undergoing thorough investigations and are expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna for more detailed interrogation.
Context and Impact of Transformer Theft in Nigeria
Transformer theft remains a significant challenge across Nigeria, disrupting power supply and causing substantial economic losses. According to recent reports by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), transformer-related thefts have contributed to over 15% of power outages nationwide in 2024. Such criminal activities not only affect residential and commercial electricity access but also increase maintenance costs for utility companies.
Efforts by law enforcement agencies, like the Niger State Police Command’s recent operation, are crucial in curbing this menace. Community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities have proven effective in several cases, underscoring the importance of public cooperation in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
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