A yet-to-be-identified vandal suspect has been electrocuted while attempting to tamper with a MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) substation on Independence Avenue, Independence Layout, Enugu.
The incident was confirmed on Tuesday by MEDL’s Head of Communications, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, who described the occurrence as “unfortunate.” According to Ezeh, the lifeless body of the suspect was discovered early in the morning within the premises of the Akonobi 500KVA Distribution Substation, a facility managed by MEDL.
Reports indicate that the deceased, along with accomplices, had successfully loosened two intermediate cables from the substation and was in the process of removing a third when electricity supply was restored, leading to his electrocution.
“It is presumed that the deceased did not act alone, as two of the vandalised intermediate cables were missing from the scene, suggesting that his accomplices fled with them,” Ezeh stated.
The MEDL spokesman expressed concern over the increasing frequency of vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure, noting that such acts not only reduce company revenue but also negatively affect the quality of service provided to customers. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the company to prevent incidents that disrupt power supply.
“Vandalism is a major challenge that cannot be effectively addressed without the active support of customers, who are critical stakeholders. It is a battle we must fight collectively because once installations are vandalised, the customers served by them are severely impacted,” Ezeh said.
He further noted that the death of the suspect, who paid the ultimate price, should serve as a deterrent to others considering similar criminal activities. The remains of the electrocuted individual were evacuated by the Nigeria Police and deposited at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital morgue.
Power supply vandalism continues to pose a significant obstacle to stable electricity in Nigeria. In 2025, the Transmission Company of Nigeria reported 131 cases of infrastructure vandalism across its network, highlighting the persistent challenge of protecting critical electricity facilities from sabotage and theft.
MEDL reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its installations while calling on communities to support efforts to prevent vandalism and ensure uninterrupted electricity service.
