Suspected vandal electrocuted while attempting to steal high-tension cables

A suspected electricity vandal met a tragic end after being electrocuted while attempting to steal high-tension cables in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 14, 2024, at about 1:30 a.m., along New Airport Road, near the Poultry Farm area.

According to eyewitnesses, there was a brief power outage, during which the unidentified man, believed to be a resident of the area, allegedly began tampering with the power lines. Unfortunately, electricity was restored while he was still at work, resulting in his immediate electrocution.

Residents reported that the man was discovered with tools such as pliers and was wearing only short socks, further fueling suspicion that he had intended to vandalize the electrical infrastructure.

Scores of residents gathered at the scene to catch a glimpse of the lifeless body hanging precariously from the high-tension wires.

Locals say the area has suffered repeated cases of vandalism targeting transformers and other electricity installations.

However, it is rare for vandals to attempt scaling high-tension cables, especially at night.

At the time of filing this report, officials of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) had yet to issue a formal statement.

The remains of the victim were still dangling from the cables.