Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has confirmed the arrest of five individuals allegedly caught vandalising a major power transmission line in Benue State.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Thursday, TCN said the suspects, identified as residents of Upu community in Otukpo LGA, were apprehended by local vigilante members on November 3 while attempting to damage the Otukpo–Yandev 132kV single-circuit transmission line.
The company said, “The suspects were caught in the act while vandalising towers N16 and N17 in the ASA 3 community, with damage extending to eight other towers along the line.”
“Consequently, the suspects, along with dismembered tower parts and other recovered materials, were handed over to the Benue State Police Command for investigation and prosecution.”
TCN noted that the damaged section of the transmission line has been isolated while bulk power supply has been restored to Yandev, Wukari, Takum, and Kashimbila substations through the Apir substation. It added that supply to the Otukpo substation is currently being back-fed from the New Haven substation.
The company expressed appreciation to the Otukpo local government chairman, community leaders, youths, and the vigilante group for their prompt response and cooperation in securing the arrest.
TCN reiterated its commitment to working closely with local communities to safeguard national power infrastructure and prevent future incidents of vandalism.
