Man dies while tampering with live cables in Jigawa

The Jigawa State Police Command has confirmed the electrocution of a suspected cable vandal at the State Secretariat Complex in Dutse.

Police spokesperson SP Shiisu Lawan Adam said the suspect died while attempting to tamper with high-voltage armored cables on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

The Command received a distress call from the Ministry of Works around 10:00 a.m. and deployed officers to the scene.

Officers discovered the lifeless body of an unidentified man beneath a concrete culvert within the secretariat premises.

Investigators believe the suspect was electrocuted instantly while handling the live power cables without authorization.

Police reported that the body had already started decomposing by the time officers arrived.

Authorities evacuated the corpse and deposited it at Dutse General Hospital for identification and further examination.

SP Shiisu described the act as illegal and highly dangerous, warning others against sabotage of public infrastructure.

He urged residents to report suspicious activity, especially near electrical installations and government facilities.

The Command vowed to intensify surveillance around power infrastructure to prevent similar incidents.

Preliminary findings suggest the suspect may have acted alone, though police are investigating possible links to a vandalism ring.

SP Shiisu reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and critical infrastructure across the state.

He also emphasized the public’s role in securing communities through vigilance and timely reporting.

Jigawa State has recorded several cable theft incidents in recent years, causing power disruptions and financial loss.

The state government has repeatedly warned against damage to power installations due to safety and economic risks.

Officials are now working with utility companies to fortify vulnerable sites and prevent unauthorized access.

Police say ongoing investigations aim to determine the suspect’s identity and any accomplices involved.

The Command has assured the public of continued efforts to curb sabotage and bring offenders to justice.

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