Makurdi, Nigeria – A local vigilante group recently arrested a Police Inspector and two others for allegedly vandalizing power installations belonging to the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC).
The crime took place in Demekpe, where vigilant locals caught the suspects red-handed during a pre-dawn operation.
An eyewitness reported spotting the trio damaging electrical infrastructure at 4 a.m. on Tuesday. However, when challenged, two men escaped, abandoning their accomplice, 50-year–old Innocent Ishaku. Subsequently, Ishaku disclosed his partners’ identities as local residents Isa and Mohammed.
Investigators later confirmed Ishaku as an active-duty Police Inspector posted to Makurdi ten years ago. Astonishingly, he confessed to repeatedly stealing cables in Wadata with his associates. Consequently, vigilantes pursued and captured the fugitives within hours.
During the arrest, officers retrieved stolen cables, connectors, and Ishaku’s police identification card. Immediately afterward, authorities transferred all three suspects to ‘D’ Division Station for detailed questioning.
Dr. Adakole Elijah of JEDC confirmed the incident, praising the vigilantes for their swift action.
Meanwhile, attempts to reach the Benue State Police Spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful. Officials have vowed to conduct a thorough investigation, ensuring all involved face legal consequences. This case underscores the persistent struggle utility companies face in protecting critical infrastructure from vandalism.
The arrest highlights the alarming involvement of law enforcement in such crimes, raising concerns about internal accountability. Community members have expressed relief but demand stricter measures to prevent future incidents. As investigations continue, authorities urge the public to report suspicious activities to curb further damage to essential services.
Ultimately, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stronger security collaboration between communities and utility providers. Without decisive action, vandalism will continue disrupting power supply and undermining economic growth in the region.
