ILORIN, Kwara State — The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has arrested two men suspected of vandalising transformer cables and other electricity infrastructure in the Tanke-Iledu community of Ilorin.
The suspects, identified as 20-year-old Nurah Abdullahi, popularly known as Hartabo, and 23-year-old Sherif Abdullahi, were arrested on October 5, 2026, following an intelligence tip-off and an operation by NSCDC operatives.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Ayoola Michael Shola, disclosed the arrests in a statement, saying officers recovered several items during the operation and subsequent search.
The recovered items reportedly included suspected vandalised transformer cables, inner and outer cable coverings, a Bajaj motorcycle, a saw, a knife and a pair of electrical gloves.
The command said preliminary investigations linked the suspects to alleged acts of vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure in Tanke-Iledu.
NSCDC Seeks Additional Suspects
The corps said investigations were continuing, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend other individuals suspected of involvement in the alleged activities.
The command has not announced any additional arrests connected to the case.
Vandalism of electricity infrastructure can disrupt power supply, damage public assets and impose additional repair costs on electricity distribution companies and communities.
Transformer cables and other electrical components are essential to the distribution network. Their removal or destruction can leave residents and businesses without electricity while repair work is carried out.
The NSCDC is responsible for protecting critical national infrastructure and works to prevent crimes involving public utilities and other essential assets.
Kwara Commandant Warns Against Infrastructure Vandalism
The Kwara State Commandant, Abbas Ndah Mohammed, commended the operatives for their vigilance, professionalism and commitment to protecting critical infrastructure.
He reiterated the command’s determination to prevent Kwara State from becoming a safe haven for vandals and other offenders.
Mohammed said the command would continue intelligence-led operations to identify, arrest and investigate individuals suspected of activities that threaten public safety and essential infrastructure.
He also urged people involved in the destruction or theft of public assets to desist from such activities.
The command said protecting public infrastructure remained important to safeguarding government property and the economic wellbeing of residents.
Suspects May Face Court Proceedings
According to the NSCDC, the suspects will be charged to court after investigations are completed and a prima facie case is established, in accordance with the law.
The arrests represent an investigative step and do not amount to a conviction. The allegations against both men will have to be tested through the appropriate legal process.
The command has urged residents to support efforts to protect public infrastructure and report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine whether further arrests or formal charges will follow.
