A suspected cable vandal, Muktar Rabiu, narrowly escaped death after being electrocuted while attempting to steal high-voltage cables in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The incident happened on November 28, 2024, just weeks after Rabiu was apprehended and sentenced for a similar crime.
In a statement released on Monday, the FCT Police Command Spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, revealed that Rabiu was initially arrested on November 21, 2024, during a routine patrol along Christ the King Road in Gwagwalada.
She said at the time, he was caught in possession of high-voltage cables suspected to have been stolen from the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.
She further stated that upon arraignment, Rabiu was sentenced to community service, which included receiving 42 strokes of the cane. However, Adeh noted that the penalty did not deter him from returning to criminal activities.
Aden said, “This time, however, karma intervened,” Adeh said. “On November 28, 2024, just a few weeks after his community service, Rabiu suffered severe electrocution while attempting to dismantle electrical apparatus. He is now receiving medical treatment in a hospital.”
The Police PRO confirmed that Rabiu would face fresh charges upon recovery.
She also used the opportunity to issue a stern warning to criminals involved in vandalising public infrastructure.
“The FCT Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and has issued a stern warning against acts of vandalism and theft of public utilities,” Adeh stated. “Such actions not only jeopardize lives but also disrupt essential services that communities rely on.”
The police called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.
“Community participation is vital in the fight against vandalism, ensuring a safer environment for all,” Adeh added.
