Vigilante Group Apprehends Suspects in Act of Vandalism
The ongoing battle to protect Nigeria's critical power infrastructure has recorded a significant victory in Benue State, where local vigilantes successfully arrested five suspected vandals from Upu Community in Otukpo Local Government Area. The suspects were caught in the act of damaging the vital Otukpo–Yandev 132kV Single-Circuit transmission line on November 3, 2025.
According to an official statement released by the Transmission Company of Nigeria and signed by General Manager of Public Affairs Ndidi Mbah in Abuja, the arrest demonstrates the effectiveness of community involvement in protecting national assets. The suspects were apprehended while actively vandalizing towers identified as N16 and N17 in the ASA 3 Community area.
Extensive Damage to Power Infrastructure
The vandalism incident caused substantial damage that extended beyond the immediate towers targeted by the suspects. Investigations revealed that eight additional towers along the transmission line suffered various degrees of damage, significantly compromising the integrity of the power infrastructure serving multiple communities.
Following their apprehension, the suspects were handed over to the Benue State Police Command along with the dismembered parts of the towers and other materials recovered from the scene. The police have taken custody of the individuals for thorough investigation and subsequent prosecution under relevant laws.
TCN Implements Emergency Power Restoration
In response to the vandalism, TCN engineers have taken immediate measures to minimize disruption to electricity supply in affected areas. The damaged section of the transmission line has been successfully isolated, allowing for bulk power restoration to Yandev, Wukari, Takum, and Kashimbila Transmission Substation through the Apir Substation.
Meanwhile, the Otukpo Substation is being backfed from the New Heaven Substation, ensuring continued electricity supply to consumers while repairs on the vandalized sections are being planned. This swift response demonstrates TCN's commitment to maintaining stable power supply despite challenges posed by infrastructure vandalism.
TCN specifically commended the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, community leaders, youth groups, and members of the local vigilante group for their coordinated efforts that led to the successful arrest. The company emphasized its commitment to sustaining this productive synergy with host communities for enhanced protection of critical transmission infrastructure across the country.
