TCN: Two Nabbed Over Vandalism of Ebonyi Transmission Towers

"Preliminary investigations revealed that structural components of the affected transmission towers, valued at billions of naira, were systematically removed and allegedly sold to illegal scrap metal dealers." TCN.

..... Commends the swift intervention of the Ezza Umuhuali youths and local vigilante members, urging communities nationwide to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around electricity infrastructure to security agencies or nearby TCN offices.

Two suspected vandals have been arrested over the destruction of critical transmission infrastructure along the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV transmission line in Ebonyi State, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has disclosed.

TCN said the suspects, identified as Obinna Nweke and Monday Ezike, were apprehended on May 9, 2026, in connection with the vandalism of Towers T15, T16 and T17 on the single-circuit transmission line.

According to a statement issued by TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, the suspects are indigenes of Ezza Umuhuali Community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The company said the suspects were arrested by local youths and members of a vigilante group following a tip-off from residents.

TCN disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that structural components of the affected transmission towers, valued at billions of naira, were systematically removed and allegedly sold to illegal scrap metal dealers.

The company further revealed that the vandalism had reportedly been ongoing since January 2026 before the suspects were finally apprehended.

“The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Nigerian Police Force at Ishielu Police Station, Ntezi, and have since been formally charged before the Ebonyi State High Court,” the statement said.

While the two suspects are currently in custody, TCN noted that investigations are continuing to track down other accomplices believed to be at large.

The power transmission company condemned the act, describing it as economic sabotage capable of undermining electricity supply stability in Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.

TCN also commended the swift intervention of the Ezza Umuhuali youths and local vigilante members, urging communities nationwide to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around electricity infrastructure to security agencies or nearby TCN offices.