TCN arrests 24-year-old man caught removing cables from 330kV power facility

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has arrested a 24-year-old man for allegedly vandalising a 330-kilovolt (330kV) switchyard in its Benin sub-region.

The suspect, identified as Wisdom Amaunam from Erediauwa Community, was arrested at about 10am on Thursday, October 22, 2026, while allegedly removing cables and wires from a marshalling kiosk within the switchyard.

TCN said the suspect was apprehended by a security officer who was on routine patrol of the facility.

He was subsequently handed over to the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for investigation.

The suspect remains in custody pending the conclusion of investigations and possible arraignment.

In a statement, TCN commended NSCDC personnel for their vigilance and cooperation in protecting critical electricity infrastructure against vandalism and other security threats.

The company warned that the destruction or theft of equipment at transmission facilities could disrupt electricity transmission and affect power supply to homes and businesses.

It reiterated its zero tolerance for vandalism, trespassing and sabotage, urging residents of host communities and members of the public to report suspicious activities around transmission installations to security agencies or the nearest TCN office.

The company said public cooperation was essential to protecting electricity infrastructure and ensuring reliable power transmission across the country.