A suspected vandal lost his life after being electrocuted while attempting to tamper with a transformer substation on Ogechukwu Street in Awka, the Anambra State capital.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Mr. Izunna Okafor, Head of Communications at FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Ltd. (FPEDL), the incident occurred in the early hours of February 24. The individual, who has yet to be identified, was reportedly wearing a security uniform when he tried to vandalize the substation, triggering a large explosion.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the explosion resulted from unauthorized interference with FirstPower’s electricity infrastructure. The Anambra State Police Command was notified, and the deceased’s body has since been removed from the scene. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Mr. Okechukwu Okafor, Managing Director of FPEDL, condemned the recurring acts of vandalism and energy theft in Anambra State, emphasizing that such activities not only cause financial losses and service disruptions but also endanger the lives of both perpetrators and the public.
He urged residents and community leaders to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities near electricity installations to FirstPower via 08161652465 (WhatsApp or SMS) or to the nearest security agency. Protecting power infrastructure is a collective responsibility, and community cooperation is essential to safeguard assets meant to serve the public good, he stated.
The FPEDL reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe and reliable electricity services and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to combat vandalism and protect its network facilities.
