The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced the arrest of two suspects linked to the vandalism of the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV Single Circuit Transmission Line in Ebonyi State.
In a statement issued by the company’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, TCN disclosed that the suspects were arrested on May 9, 2026, for their alleged involvement in the destruction of transmission towers T15, T16, and T17 along the power line.
The suspects, identified as Obinna Nweke and Monday Ezike, are said to be indigenes of the Ezza Umuhuali Community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
According to TCN, the suspects were apprehended by local youths and members of a vigilante group following a tip-off from residents of the community.
Preliminary investigations revealed that structural components of the affected transmission towers had been systematically dismantled and sold to illegal scrap metal dealers. The company added that further findings indicated that the vandalism had been ongoing since January 2026.
TCN condemned the act, describing it as economic sabotage capable of destabilising electricity supply to Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.
The company also commended the vigilance and swift intervention of youths from the Ezza Umuhuali Community and the local vigilante group for assisting in the arrest of the suspects.
TCN urged communities across the country to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around high-voltage transmission infrastructure to security agencies or the nearest TCN office.