Suspected vandal electrocuted while attempting to steal power cables in Calabar

A suspected electricity vandal lost his life in the early hours of Monday, July 14, 2024, after being electrocuted while attempting to steal high-tension cables in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. along New Airport Road, near the Poultry Farm area. According to eyewitness accounts, there was a brief power outage, during which the unidentified man—believed to be a local resident—allegedly began tampering with the overhead power lines.

Tragically, power was restored while he was still at work, resulting in his instant electrocution. Residents were said to have discovered his lifeless body dangling from the pole, with charred cables and tools scattered at the scene.

Residents reported that the man was discovered with tools such as pliers and was wearing only short socks, further fueling suspicion that he had intended to vandalize the electrical infrastructure.

Scores of residents gathered at the scene to catch a glimpse of the lifeless body hanging precariously from the high-tension wires.

Locals say the area has suffered repeated cases of vandalism targeting transformers and other electricity installations.

However, it is rare for vandals to attempt scaling high-tension cables, especially at night.

At the time of filing this report, officials of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) had yet to issue a formal statement.

The remains of the victim were still dangling from the cables.