NSCDC in Osun arrests two men over alleged electricity meter tampering and illegal power vending, pledging prosecution and protection of infrastructure

The Osun State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has apprehended two men, Babatunde, 46, and Akin, 40, for their alleged involvement in electricity meter tampering and illegal power vending.

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The arrests followed a formal complaint from a customer of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, IBEDC, whose prepaid meter reportedly malfunctioned.

According to the command’s spokesperson, Kehinde Adeleke, the investigation revealed deliberate interference with the device. State Commandant Igbalawole Sotiyo confirmed that the suspects allegedly collaborated to manipulate the prepaid meter, with one suspect, a former IBEDC employee, implicated in the technical aspect of the fraud.

“The investigation revealed that the prepaid meter was unlawfully formatted, and about 200 electricity units were made to appear on the meter without payment,” Commandant Sotiyo said.

He urged electricians and other service providers to avoid illegal activities that could compromise power infrastructure.

The NSCDC warned that offenders would face prosecution and reiterated its commitment to protecting critical national assets, including electricity installations.

Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities involving electricity meters or other public utilities to the nearest NSCDC office.

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The suspects will be formally charged to court following the conclusion of ongoing investigations, highlighting the Corps’ proactive stance against utility fraud and sabotage.