Suspected Cable Thief Electrocuted While Attempting Theft At Lagos Power Facility

A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Monday as an alleged cable thief was electrocuted while trying to steal underground electrical wires at a Lagos housing estate. The event occurred at the Lateef Kayode Jakande (LKJ) Gardens, situated along the LASU-Iba Expressway in Igando, Lagos State.

Timeline of the Incident

According to eyewitnesses and estate security, the attempted theft took place around 2:00 a.m., when two suspects breached the estate’s perimeter. They were identified as Sadiq Danjuma and an accomplice known simply as “Yahoo.” Both individuals were reportedly targeting high-voltage underground power cables that supply electricity to the estate.

Deadly Shock Inside Injection Sub-Station

While attempting to gain access to the cables, Danjuma reportedly entered an Injection Sub-Station (ISS). Unfortunately, he encountered a live power line, resulting in a powerful electrical shock that left his body badly burned. His accomplice escaped the scene immediately.

Related: How to Protect Your Estate from Power Cable Theft

Confession Before Collapse

Despite being severely injured, Danjuma was able to speak to security personnel, which included operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and local Mountain Troops. He reportedly begged for medical assistance in exchange for revealing full details of the cable theft syndicate.

Key Confessions

The operation was orchestrated by a larger cable theft syndicate.
Danjuma received ₦5,000 upfront as part payment from their handler.
The cables were to be sold to a known scrap dealer called Seriki.
In previous thefts, they had sold stolen wires to Akanji at ₦10,000 per kilogram.

“I came from Igando, and Yahoo came from Oko Filling. We were paid an advance and promised more after delivery,” Danjuma confessed.

Community Outrage Over NSCDC’s Response

Residents of LKJ Gardens expressed deep frustration over what they called an unprofessional and delayed response from the Lagos State Command of the NSCDC.

Statement from the Estate Chairman

Mr. Olajide Andu, the Chairman of the estate, criticized the NSCDC for focusing more on medical formalities than justice. He narrated how residents had to escort the suspect for medical attention across different facilities, from Alausa to General Hospital Igando and LASUTH in Ikeja, without any proper support from the NSCDC.

“We caught and treated a cable thief, but instead of processing him legally, we were sent on a wild goose chase for medical reports,” Andu said.

Security Risk Highlighted

Residents expressed concerns over the risk of transporting a suspect without sufficient protection, especially fearing that the syndicate could launch a counter-attack.

Call for Accountability

The community has demanded that the national headquarters of NSCDC investigate the Lagos State Command for its handling of the matter. Many believe such negligence could push the public toward vigilante justice, undermining efforts to promote law and order.

Final Thoughts

This tragic incident highlights the growing threat of infrastructure vandalism in Lagos and across Nigeria. More importantly, it sheds light on the need for swift and responsible actions by law enforcement agencies. Estates and communities must remain vigilant and ensure proper collaborations with security forces to protect public utilities.

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Suspected Cable Thief Electrocuted During Failed Attempt at Lagos Power Facility

Timeline of the Incident

Deadly Shock Inside Injection Sub-Station