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The Osun State Police Command has arrested four staff members of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) and two welders in connection with the alleged vandalism and theft of a high-tension power line pole at Eko-Ende Junction in Ikirun, Osun State.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, Ikirun and its surrounding communities have suffered recurring theft and vandalism of cables and electrical infrastructure in recent months, leaving the area in darkness.
“Acting on credible intelligence received at about 6:00 AM, police operatives attached to the Ikirun Division, led by the DPO, responded swiftly to the scene.
“Six suspects caught using a generator-powered cutting machine on the high-tension pole were subsequently arrested,” Ojelabi stated.
Police suspect the group is part of a syndicate responsible for the ongoing infrastructure sabotage in the axis.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Onabamiji Emmanuel (55), IBEDC staff member, Ikirun; Bolaji Odusanya (51), IBEDC staff member, Ikirun; Alimi Akeem (36), IBEDC staff member, Ikirun; Balogun Kehinde (52), IBEDC security guard; Oyewo Hammed (31), welder; and Oladosu Hammed (22), welder.
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Recovered exhibits include a cutting machine, a generating set and welding equipment used during the operation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, has ordered that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for detailed investigation, noting that the suspects will face prosecution upon completion of the probe.
Reiterating the Command’s stance, CP Zungura assured the public of the police’s commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure and warned individuals involved in sabotaging critical utilities to desist.
He also encouraged residents to support law enforcement by providing timely, credible information to aid crime prevention across Osun State.
