As the yuletide draws closer, the Enugu Electricity Distribution PLC (EEDC) has renewed its stride in sensitizing its customers on the need to be more vigilant during the season as activities of vandals is on the rise, a situation that if not checked will result to customers being subjected to darkness during the festive period.
Recounting that over 20 vandals were apprehended within its network between the month of October and November, 2021.
The warning was made by the Head of Corporate Communications, EEDC, Mr. Emeka Ezeh while interacting with newsmen in Enugu on Wednesday, following the arrest of two suspected vandals on Friday by the vigilante team of Nri, in Aniocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The suspects, identified as Ugochukwu Nweri and Eugene Azali were arrested for vandalising the Ugwuokporo D7 distribution substation located at Agukwu Nri. Having lifted the transformer from the plinth, the duo went ahead to drain the oil, cut some parts of the upriser and porcelain.
They were immediately handed over to the Neni Police Station, while effort is being made to transfer them to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka, for further investigation and possible arraignment in court.
It was equally gathered that five suspected vandals were arrested by the vigilante group of Nara Community in Nkanu East Local Government Area for their involvement in the vandalism of EEDC transformers in the community. The suspects are identified as Chidera Ogbu, Ede Sunday, Onyedika Ani, Chinedu Ani (Alias Madu Bu Ekwuensu) and the receiver of the stolen items, identified as Onyebuchi Igwe.
In a related development, 22-year-old Monday Nwankwo and 21-year-old Chinedu Nwankwo, both from Ezza Umuhuali, Ebonyi State, were arrested by Amayi Vigilante team for vandalizing Amayi Akamili Uruagu Nnewi distribution substation.
According to the company’s spokesperson, the company has assured its customers across the South East of its readiness to provide quality services and support throughout the festive period.
He further encouraged customers to be more vigilant in ensuring that the electricity infrastructures within their environment are safe from vandals, so they can enjoy the services EEDC will offer during the festive period.