NSCDC arrests former AEDC worker, others over alleged N350m cable theft

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested a former employee of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company and other suspects over the alleged vandalism and theft of electricity cables valued at more than N350 million.

The former AEDC employee was identified as 25-year-old Isaac Zegbe.

NSCDC operatives arrested Zegbe and other suspects during intelligence-led operations carried out across the Federal Capital Territory and several neighbouring states.

According to the Corps, more than 15 kilometres of aluminium conductors running between Yangoji and Abaji were vandalised.

The stolen cables were allegedly distributed to marketers in different markets across the FCT.

NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, said operatives recovered a significant quantity of the vandalised cables during a sting operation at Gudu Market in Abuja.

Suspected receivers of the stolen materials were also arrested.

One suspect, identified as Chijoke Christian, was accused of knowingly purchasing some of the stolen cables.

The NSCDC said it had obtained a court order to seal shops belonging to merchants allegedly linked to the purchase of the stolen aluminium cables.

The Corps also announced arrests arising from separate operations targeting vehicle theft, armed robbery and other forms of infrastructure vandalism.

Items recovered during the operations included an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, electrical cables, tractor batteries, cutting tools and a stolen vehicle.

The NSCDC said the suspects would be charged to court after investigations are completed and a prima facie case is established against them.