TCN arrests over 30 suspected vandals in Kano-Kaduna

The Transmission Company of Nigeria has arrested over 30 suspected vandals of electricity infrastructure, particularly along the Kumbotso–Zaria transmission line corridor, according to the company’s Kano Regional General Manager, M.K. Bello.

Bello disclosed this on Wednesday during a sensitisation campaign against encroachment on transmission lines and vandalism of electricity infrastructure in Paki community, Ikara Local Government Area of Kaduna State, as part of efforts to prevent damage to transmission facilities and reduce disruptions to electricity supply along the Kumbotso–Zaria corridor.

He expressed concern over excavation, construction activities and the digging of pits close to transmission towers, warning that such practices could weaken the structures and threaten electricity transmission. He also disclosed that about 10 transmission towers had been vandalised within four to five months in 2026.

“We have about five cases before the courts over these issues,” Bello said, adding that the company was pursuing legal action against suspected vandals.

He explained that transmission lines carry electricity over distances of between 200 and 300 kilometres, warning that damage to any supporting tower could disrupt power supply and require substantial funds for replacement.

“The digging of pits and construction activities taking place close to our transmission towers are major concerns. These towers support lines that transmit electricity over distances of more than 200 to 300 kilometres. If anything happens to any of these towers, they could collapse, and replacing them would cost a lot of money,” he said.

Bello attributed the arrests to cooperation between TCN and residents, particularly traditional rulers, the police and other security agencies.

“We have arrested more than 30 suspected vandals, particularly in this area. We are very grateful to the community, especially the district head, the police and other security agencies, for their cooperation and support in protecting our transmission infrastructure,” he said.

He urged residents to avoid activities that could endanger transmission towers and to report suspected vandalism and encroachment to the appropriate authorities to help protect electricity infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, the District Head of Paki, Ja’afaru Paki, commended TCN for engaging communities along the transmission line corridor, saying the visit had encouraged traditional institutions to intensify efforts to protect public assets.

“The protection of public property is one of our priorities. We do not only monitor electricity infrastructure; we also keep a close eye on all government assets within our district. TCN’s recognition of our efforts has further encouraged us to do more to protect these important facilities,” Paki said.

He said the sensitisation programme brought together district heads from communities along the transmission line corridor, Friday prayer imams and representatives of security outposts serving the area and neighbouring communities.

He added that the participants listened to presentations on the importance of protecting electricity infrastructure and the consequences of vandalism and encroachment.

Paki said electricity was essential to community development, economic growth, security and the provision of other vital services, stressing that protecting transmission facilities required collective responsibility and sustained cooperation among residents and relevant stakeholders.

The district head said TCN’s recognition of the community’s contributions would encourage residents to sustain their support.

He also highlighted the role of the district’s Peace Promotion Committee and Friday prayer imams in promoting unity, peaceful coexistence and public awareness through community outreach and sermons.